Gambling can be a form of entertainment for many, but for some, it becomes more than just a game. When gambling shifts from fun to a harmful habit, it can have devastating effects on both the individual and their loved ones.
Recognising the signs of problem gambling and knowing how to address them is the first step toward regaining control. This post is designed to help those who are concerned their gambling habit is spiraling out of control, as well as those worried about someone they care about.
Symptoms of Problem Gambling
Gambling addiction, also known as gambling disorder or compulsive gambling, often manifests subtly at first. Many people might not realise how deep the problem has become until it significantly impacts their lives. Here are some key signs that gambling has become problematic:
Preoccupation with Gambling
If you find yourself constantly thinking about gambling, planning your next session, or obsessing over past wins or losses, this could be a warning sign. You might spend most of your time consumed by thoughts of how to get money for gambling or strategies to win back losses.
Chasing Losses
One hallmark of gambling addiction is the relentless pursuit of losses. After a loss, you may feel an overwhelming urge to gamble more, believing that the next big win is just around the corner. This dangerous cycle often leads to increasing financial trouble.
Lying About Gambling
If you’re hiding how much you’re gambling or lying about it to friends and family, it’s a sign that your habit has crossed into unhealthy territory. Deception is often used to cover up mounting losses or the amount of time spent gambling.
Betting More Than You Can Afford
When you begin to bet larger amounts than initially planned, and those bets exceed what you can comfortably afford, it’s a red flag. People with gambling issues often feel compelled to wager increasingly large amounts to maintain the same level of excitement.
Inability to Stop
Feeling powerless to quit, even when you’re aware of the negative consequences, is a core symptom of addiction. You may try to cut back, only to find yourself drawn back in, unable to resist the temptation to gamble.
Neglecting Responsibilities
If gambling is interfering with your work or family obligations, it is a clear indication of a problem. As gambling becomes the main priority, other essential areas of life start to suffer, and personal relationships can deteriorate.
Borrowing Money to Gamble
Many people struggling with gambling addiction turn to borrowing money—from friends, family, or financial institutions—to cover gambling losses. This often leads to debt, strained relationships, and even illegal activities to support the habit.
Remedies and Steps to Regain Control
Once you’ve identified that your gambling habit is problematic, the next crucial step is to seek help and implement strategies to regain control. Recovery from gambling addiction is possible, and there are many resources and coping mechanisms available.
Acknowledge the Problem
Acceptance is the first and most important step. Acknowledge that your gambling has become an issue and that you need help to address it. Many people feel shame or guilt, but remember, addiction is a condition that can be treated with the right support.
Set Limits
Every UK gambling company has an obligation to provide safe gambling tools to help players stay in control. These tools include the ability to set deposit limits, loss limits and Reality Checks on to the account.
Begin by setting strict limits on how much time and money you’re willing to spend on gambling, and stick to them. This can help reduce the urge to gamble impulsively. In addition, consider handing over control of your finances to a trusted person to prevent access to funds for gambling.
Avoid Triggers
Identify the triggers that lead to your gambling. It could be boredom, stress, loneliness, or even certain places and people. By avoiding these triggers or finding healthier coping mechanisms, you can decrease the chances of relapsing.
Seek Professional Help
Professional counselling or therapy is essential for many people dealing with gambling addiction. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be highly effective in treating gambling disorders, as it helps individuals recognise destructive thought patterns and replace them with healthier behaviours.
Join Support Groups
Organisations like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) provide a supportive community for those struggling with gambling addiction. GA follows a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous and offers a safe space to share experiences and gain encouragement from others who are in recovery.
For online help, visit gambleaware.org her you can find financial calculator tools, sound advice a telephone hotline and a Live Chat service with professionals on the other end willing to help in any way the can relating to potential problem gambling.
Self-Exclusion Programs
Legitimate UK gambling platforms, both online and offline, offer self-exclusion programs. These allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling establishments or websites for a certain period of time. This can be an effective way to prevent access to gambling opportunities during the recovery process.
Practice Self-Care
Take care of your mental and emotional health. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment outside of gambling is important. Exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and mindfulness practices can all help reduce stress and replace the desire to gamble with healthier alternatives.
Financial Advice
If gambling has led to significant financial problems, consider speaking with a financial advisor. They can help you create a plan to address debts, avoid further borrowing, and manage your money responsibly as you work on overcoming your gambling addiction.
Spotting Signs of Gambling Addiction in Others
If you’re concerned that someone you care about might be struggling with a gambling problem, it can be difficult to know how to approach the situation. However, there are warning signs you can watch for:
Changes in Behaviour
People with gambling problems may become secretive, irritable, or defensive when asked about their gambling habits. They may also withdraw from social activities, family gatherings, or previous hobbies they enjoyed.
Financial Issues
Frequent borrowing, unpaid bills, or sudden financial crises can indicate a gambling problem. Be wary if someone starts asking for loans, maxing out credit cards, or selling possessions without a clear explanation.
Mood Swings
People with gambling issues often experience extreme emotional highs and lows—elation after a win and depression or frustration after a loss. These mood swings can be intense and disruptive.
Preoccupation with Gambling
If a loved one is constantly talking about gambling, making bets, or following gambling-related events like sports matches or poker games obsessively, this could be a sign of a growing problem.
Neglect of Responsibilities
Neglecting important duties—whether at work, or home, might signal a deeper issue. They may start showing up late to work or avoiding family responsibilities, focusing all their energy on gambling.
Denial or Defensiveness
Many people with gambling problems deny the extent of their behaviour when confronted. They might downplay the issue, become defensive, or even become angry when questioned.
Supporting Someone Struggling with Gambling
If you believe someone you care about has a gambling problem, approach them with empathy and understanding rather than judgment. Express concern in a non-confrontational way, and offer to help them find resources like support groups or counselling. Let them know you’re there for them, but also set clear boundaries if their behaviour is affecting your well-being.
Encouraging someone to seek professional help is often the best course of action. As with any addiction, recovery from gambling disorder is possible, but it often requires support from professionals and a strong network of loved ones.
Conclusion
Recognising the symptoms of a gambling problem, either in yourself or in others, is the first step toward recovery. By understanding the signs and taking proactive steps to address them, individuals can regain control of their lives and break free from the grip of addiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, remember that help is available, and recovery is possible with the right support and resources.