Problem gambling can happen to anyone, regardless of background or experience. It develops gradually and may be difficult to detect in the early stages. Here are the signs to watch for in yourself or someone you care about:
Warning: If you recognise three or more of the signs below in yourself, it is strongly recommended that you seek help immediately.
- Chasing losses: Constantly trying to recover money that has been lost by continuing to gamble, even as losses mount.
- Concealing activity: Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or a partner out of shame or fear of judgment.
- Shifting priorities: Neglecting work, family, or educational responsibilities due to excessive time spent gambling.
- Borrowing to gamble: Borrowing money, selling valuables, or using emergency savings to continue gambling.
- Discomfort when not gambling: Feeling restless, irritable, or uneasy when unable to gamble for a period of time.
- Cannot stop: Have tried multiple times to cut down or stop gambling but without success.
- Relying on gambling: Viewing gambling as the only way to solve financial problems or escape from stress.
- Escalating bets: Needing to bet with increasingly larger amounts to get the same level of excitement as before.
Recognising these signs does not mean you are weak or a failure. On the contrary, it reflects strong self-awareness and a brave first step toward recovery.