Gambling addiction is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone — regardless of background, income, or education level. Recognising the early warning signs is the most important first step to getting help before the problem worsens.
Here are the warning signs to watch for in yourself or someone you care about:
- Uncontrollable urges: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning the next session, or figuring out ways to get money to gamble.
- Escalating bets: Needing to place increasingly larger bets to get the same level of excitement as before.
- Unable to stop: Has tried multiple times to cut down or stop gambling but has been unsuccessful.
- Restless when not playing: Feeling anxious, irritable, or uncomfortable when trying to cut down or stop gambling.
- Chasing losses: Continuing to play in an attempt to recover lost money — this is the most dangerous warning sign.
- Lying to loved ones: Hiding gambling activity, the amount spent, or debts incurred from family and friends.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Neglecting work, family, school, or other daily responsibilities due to excessive focus on gambling.
- Borrowing money to gamble: Borrowing money, selling possessions, or dipping into emergency savings to fund gambling.
Remember
Experiencing one or two of the signs above does not necessarily mean you have an addiction. However, if they occur persistently and affect your daily life, please seek help immediately.