Responsible Gambling
Warning Signs
Problem gambling rarely starts suddenly. It is usually a gradual change in habits that is easier to see from the outside than from the inside.
Behavioural signs
- Thinking about gambling most of the day or planning the next session.
- Needing bigger bets to feel the same excitement.
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop.
- Playing longer than planned almost every time.
Financial signs
- Chasing losses — betting again to win back what you lost.
- Borrowing, using credit cards or payday loans, or selling things to gamble.
- Late bills, hidden spending, money that "disappears".
Emotional signs
- Irritability or anxiety when you can't gamble.
- Gambling to escape stress, boredom or loneliness.
- Guilt and shame afterwards; lying to people close to you.
If you recognise yourself
Pause for a few days and look at the numbers: how much did you spend in the last month? Take the self-assessment, set up self-exclusion and talk to an adviser — helplines are listed here.
More in this section
Self-Assessment
Nine questions about the last 12 months. Anonymous, runs in your browser.
Read →Setting Limits
How to set limits on money, time and state of mind — and stick to them.
Read →Self-Exclusion
Registers, blocking software and bank blocks: how they work.
Read →For Family & Friends
How to talk about it, protect yourself and find support.
Read →