Signs of Problem Gambling: Warning Signs and Where to Get Help

Most people who bet never have a problem. For some, though, a flutter on the football or a weekend at the races slowly becomes something they can't easily control, and the people around them often notice before they do. GambleAware says plainly that gambling harms can be hard to spot.

I've put this guide together from GambleAware's page on the signs of gambling harms and the NHS page on help for problems with gambling. It isn't a diagnosis, and only a professional can assess what's going on. If anything here sounds familiar, the support section tells you who to contact, free and in confidence.

Six warning signs of gambling harm

GambleAware lists six signs that someone may be experiencing gambling harms. You don't need all of them. Even one or two appearing together is worth taking seriously.

1. Spending more time or money than intended. Finding it hard to stop or cut back, so more time and money goes on gambling than the person can afford.
2. Chasing losses. Trying to win back money that's been lost, which GambleAware says often leads to even bigger losses, especially right after a large one.
3. Guilt, anxiety or irritability. Feeling little or no control can bring guilt, shame or low self-esteem, and related signs include anxiety, low mood, changes in sleep and mood swings.
4. Thinking and talking about gambling all the time. It takes over from other parts of life, which can mean trouble concentrating, losing interest in other activities and neglecting responsibilities.
5. Changes in relationships. Gambling may affect work, personal relationships and social life. The person may act out of character or seem more distant or quieter than usual.
6. Hiding or lying about it. Shame can lead to secrecy for fear of being judged, and GambleAware notes that secrecy often makes it easier to lose track of time or money.

What gambling harm can look like in daily life

The harm isn't only about losing bets. GambleAware groups it into financial difficulty, mental health problems, relationship problems, trouble at work and feeling isolated or alone. In practice that might be a person who's suddenly short of money with no clear reason, who's tired and on edge, who cancels plans, or who keeps checking their phone for results.

It can also build up quietly with ordinary bets. Something like an each way bet doubles the stake compared with a straight bet, so spending can rise faster than people realise.

The NHS gambling self-check

The NHS offers a nine-question self-check on its gambling page. The questions ask whether you:

• bet more than you can afford to lose
• need larger amounts to get the same thrill
• chase losses
• borrow money or sell things to gamble
• wonder whether you have a problem
• feel stress or anxiety because of gambling
• have been criticised for your gambling
• have financial problems in your household because of it
• feel guilty about your gambling

You score each question from 0 for never to 3 for almost always. The NHS says a total of 8 or more suggests you or someone close to you is likely experiencing gambling-related harm, and a total of 1 to 7 means gambling may still be affecting your life negatively. Support is available either way.

Spotting problem gambling in someone you care about

It's often easier to see in another person. GambleAware's list translates well to a friend or family member:

• They seem more distant, quiet or irritable than usual.
• They talk about betting, odds or results far more than anything else.
• They're evasive about where their time or money has gone.
• They've started to let work, family or other commitments slide.

GambleAware suggests that talking openly about gambling is a good starting point. Choose a private moment, stay calm and avoid blame, since shame is part of what keeps the secrecy going.

Where to get free, confidential help

• National Gambling Helpline (GamCare): 0808 8020 133, free and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for information, support and counselling.
• GambleAware: free, confidential support in Great Britain by call or online chat, plus a self-assessment tool and a service finder for local help.
• Your GP: the NHS says your GP can give you information about gambling services in your area.
• NHS specialist gambling clinics in England: you can self-refer to one near you or ask your GP.
• Gamblers Anonymous, Citizens Advice and the National Debtline are also listed by the NHS for support and money advice.

If gambling is seriously affecting your mental health and you need help urgently, the NHS page links to guidance on where to get urgent mental health support.

Practical steps the NHS suggests

• Register with GamStop to block gambling sites and apps for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
• Ask your bank to block payments to gambling sites and apps.
• Pay essential bills, such as your mortgage, on payday before any gambling.
• Spend more time with people who don't gamble.
• Talk to someone you trust.
• Don't treat gambling as a way of earning money, and don't carry credit cards when you go gambling.

Age limits and understanding how bets work

In most cases the minimum legal age for gambling in Great Britain is 18, including betting shops and online. Knowing how bets are settled helps you stay aware of what you're risking. For example, how a point spread works shows that a bet can lose even when your team wins the game.

Writing about responsible gambling

Clear, calm information about warning signs and support is useful to readers who aren't sure where to turn.

Responsible gambling writers can find betting sites that take expert contributor pieces in this list.

Frequently asked questions

What are the first signs of problem gambling?

GambleAware lists spending more time or money than intended, chasing losses, feeling guilty or anxious, thinking about gambling constantly, changes in relationships and hiding gambling as common signs.

What does chasing losses mean?

GambleAware describes it as trying to win back money that has been lost through gambling, which often leads to even bigger losses.

How do I know if someone I love has a gambling problem?

Look for them seeming more distant or quiet, talking about gambling a lot, being secretive about money or time, and letting responsibilities slip. Talking openly and calmly is a good starting point.

Is there a free helpline for gambling worries?

Yes. The National Gambling Helpline, run by GamCare, is free on 0808 8020 133 and open 24 hours a day. GambleAware also offers free, confidential support by call or online chat in Great Britain.

Can I get help without telling my family?

GambleAware and GamCare describe their support as free and confidential. Your GP can also give you information about gambling services in your area.