Responsible Gambling & Gambling Addiction: How to Recognize the Problem and Get Help

Understanding the Risks

Gambling can have negative consequences if it’s not approached responsibly. If you find yourself spending more than you can afford or notice gambling interfering with your relationships, work, or mental health, it may be time to consider seeking assistance.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

• Trying to win back lost money
• Being dishonest about gambling habits
• Spending more money or time gambling than intended
• Using gambling as a way to escape life’s problems
• Ignoring work, studies, or personal commitments

If you or someone close to you shows any of these signs, it’s important to know that help is available.

Where to Get Support

For those in the UK, these organisations offer free, confidential help:

• GamCare – 24/7 helpline and live chat: www.gamcare.org.uk / 0808 8020 133
• BeGambleAware – Offers guidance and self-help tools: www.begambleaware.org
• GAMSTOP – A free tool to block access to UK gambling websites: www.gamstop.co.uk
• National Gambling Support Network – Find local support: www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support

Additionally, some UK banks allow you to block gambling transactions. You can also use software like Gamban or BetBlocker to limit online gambling access.

Keeping Children Safe

We fully support the legal gambling age limit of 18+. To help protect minors, we recommend the use of parental controls that restrict access to gambling-related content.

What Is a Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction, also referred to as problem gambling, is the inability to stop gambling despite its harmful effects. Recognised as a mental health condition, it shares similarities with substance addiction. Many begin gambling for fun but may gradually lose control, chasing losses or gambling to deal with stress, anxiety, or depression.

This type of addiction can involve various forms of gambling—sports betting, online slots, casinos, scratch cards, and more. As the behaviour escalates, it can cause major financial, emotional, and social harm.

Signs You Might Have a Gambling Problem

Consider seeking help if you:

• Feel the urge to gamble with larger amounts of money
• Find it difficult to stop gambling even after trying
• Try to recover losses by continuing to gamble
• Hide your gambling activity from loved ones
• Use gambling to escape difficult emotions
• Experience financial problems or try to conceal your spending
• Let gambling affect your job, education, or relationships

If several of these resonate, support may be needed.

What Causes Gambling Problems?

There’s no single cause of gambling issues. They can arise from a combination of:

• Biological factors – brain chemistry or a family history of addiction
• Mental health challenges – such as anxiety, impulsivity, or depression
• Life stress – including financial hardship, isolation, or major life events
• Environmental and social influences – like peer pressure or easy access to gambling apps

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, income, or background.

The Effects of Gambling Harm

When gambling becomes problematic, it can result in:

• Financial issues like debt or unpaid bills
• Damage to personal and family relationships
• Job loss or academic failure
• Criminal activity, such as fraud or theft
• Mental health struggles, including suicidal thoughts
• Neglect of physical health and well-being

Tips for Responsible Gambling

To keep your gambling in check:

• Set boundaries: Decide on time and money limits before playing.
• Don’t chase your losses: Understand that losing is part of gambling.
• Take regular breaks: Stepping away helps maintain perspective.
• Avoid gambling as a coping mechanism: Don’t use it to deal with emotional distress.
• Use support tools: UK gambling platforms often provide deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and time-out features to help you stay in control.