Need immediate support? Contact Samaritans
📞 116 123 – available 24/7 for crisis support and emotional guidance

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling affects thousands of UK residents. Recognising warning signs early can help prevent serious consequences and guide you toward appropriate support.

Financial warning signs

• Borrowing money to gamble
• Using credit cards or loans to fund gambling
• Selling personal belongings to continue gambling
• Difficulty paying bills due to gambling losses

Emotional & mental signs

• Persistent thoughts about gambling
• Mood swings linked to wins or losses
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Using gambling to escape stress or problems

Social & relationship signs

• Lying about gambling activities
• Neglecting friends or family
• Missing work, school, or social commitments
• Withdrawing from loved ones

Behavioural signs

• Gambling longer than intended
• Chasing losses
• Unsuccessful attempts to stop
• Gambling to improve mood or feel better about life

Healthy Gambling vs Problem Gambling

Healthy Gambling	Problem Gambling
Set clear time and money limits	Frequently exceed time and money limits
Gamble for entertainment only	Gamble to escape problems or stress
Can take breaks easily	Find it difficult to stop gambling
Don’t chase losses	Frequently chase losses
Honest about gambling	Hide gambling from family or friends
Gambling doesn’t affect mood	Wins and losses strongly affect mood
Maintain other hobbies	Gambling becomes main focus
Can afford all gambling expenses	Gamble money needed for essentials

National Support Services

These UK organisations offer professional support, treatment programmes, and confidential resources for individuals and families affected by problem gambling:

GambleAware

• Provides education, prevention resources, and funding for treatment programmes
• 📞 0808 8020 133
• 🌐 www.begambleaware.org

GamCare

• Free support and counselling for problem gamblers
• 📞 0808 8020 133
• 💬 Online chat available
• 🌐 www.gamcare.org.uk

Gambling Therapy

• International online and telephone support network
• 🌐 www.gamblingtherapy.org
• 💬 Live chat and moderated forums

Gamblers Anonymous UK

• Free 12-step recovery programme with local meetings and online groups
• 📞 020 7384 3040
• 📧 [email protected]
• 🌐 www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk

Taking the First Steps

Recovery requires courage. Start your journey toward healthier gambling habits with these steps:

• Recognise the problem: Accept that gambling is causing difficulties in your life.
• Reach out for help: Contact a support service, counsellor, or trusted friend.
• Use blocking tools: Install gambling-blocking software and self-exclusion programmes.
• Seek professional treatment: Consider counselling, therapy, or specialised gambling addiction programmes.

Helpful Apps and Digital Tools

BetBlocker – Blocks access to thousands of gambling websites, including online casinos and sports betting sites. Free and works on all devices.
www.betblocker.org

Recovery Apps (CBT-based) – Track progress, receive mindfulness exercises, and get immediate crisis support. Available via App Store and Google Play.

Mindfulness & Stress Apps – Apps like Calm or Headspace can help manage anxiety, stress, and impulses that may trigger gambling.

Supporting a Loved One

If someone you care about struggles with gambling, your support is crucial. Approach with care and avoid enabling behaviours.

Do:

• Listen without judgment
• Encourage professional help
• Set clear financial boundaries
• Support self-exclusion efforts
• Take care of your own wellbeing

Do not:

• Lend money or cover debts
• Make threats or ultimatums
• Enable gambling by providing access to funds

Remember: gambling addiction is a health condition, not a moral failing. Recovery takes time, but consistent support and professional treatment make a lasting difference.

Recovery is possible. Thousands of UK residents have successfully regained control over their gambling. With the right support and tools, you can take the first step toward a healthier life.

Need help now?
📞 Samaritans: 116 123 – 24/7 confidential support