The signs of gambling addiction are changes in how you gamble, how you handle money, how you feel and how you get on with other people. Having one sign does not mean you have a problem. Several signs together, or signs that keep coming back, are a reason to look more closely.
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis. Only a trained professional can assess your situation.
What are the main warning signs?
Changes in how you gamble
- Betting more than you can afford, or needing bigger amounts to get the same feeling.
- Gambling for longer than you planned.
- Trying to cut down and not managing it.
- Thinking about gambling a lot, even when you are doing something else.
Changes with money
- Chasing losses, which means gambling again to win back what you lost.
- Borrowing money, selling things or leaving bills unpaid to gamble.
- Money going missing without a clear reason.
- Hiding statements, cards or online accounts.
Changes in how you feel
- Feeling restless, irritable or low when you try to gamble less.
- Feeling guilty or ashamed about your gambling.
- Gambling to escape stress, worry or low mood.
- Feeling stress or anxiety that you link to gambling. The NHS lists this among the signs of gambling harm.
Changes in relationships, work and study
- Hiding your gambling or playing it down with people close to you.
- Arguments about money or time.
- Criticism from other people about your gambling.
- Trouble at work or school.
How do doctors assess gambling problems?
Doctors use two main systems. The American Psychiatric Association’s DSM-5-TR describes gambling disorder as a pattern of repeated gambling that continues despite causing problems in several areas of life. A diagnosis needs at least four of its listed criteria within the past year. The World Health Organization’s ICD-11 also recognises gambling disorder. We could not open its text during our checks, so we do not summarise its wording here.
The criteria cover things like loss of control, chasing losses, lying about gambling and harm to work or relationships. The American Psychiatric Association notes that symptoms can come and go, so a problem can look absent in a quiet period.
A diagnosis is made by a professional after a conversation. A website cannot do it.
Is it all or nothing?
No. Gambling harm sits on a scale. The Problem Gambling Severity Index, used in official British surveys, sorts people into groups from no risk, through low and moderate risk, to problem gambling. The Gambling Commission describes the top group as people who have experienced adverse consequences and may have lost control of their behaviour.
This matters because you do not need to be at the far end to act. Early warning signs are a good time to set limits, take a break or talk to someone.
Why can online gambling feel hard to stop?
We only include what we can source, so this is short. Online gambling is available on your phone at any hour, with no venue to leave and no closing time. If that makes it hard to stop, barriers that add a pause can help, such as self-exclusion, a bank block or a blocker app.
Is gambling linked to mental health?
The NHS lists stress and anxiety among the signs of gambling harm. If you notice low mood, anxiety or thoughts of harming yourself, tell a doctor or a helpline adviser. They can help with both at the same time. If you are in danger or thinking about ending your life, call 999 now.
When should I ask for help?
Ask for help when:
- you have tried to cut down and could not,
- gambling is causing money worries,
- you are hiding it from people close to you,
- it is affecting your mood, sleep, work or relationships, or
- you are simply worried and want to talk.
You do not need to wait until things are bad. The National Gambling Helpline is free and open 24/7 on 0808 8020 133. You can also ask a GP, or refer yourself to an NHS gambling clinic in England. See where to get help.
What can I do next?
Try the two-minute self-check to see how many signs apply. If you want to act now, read how to cut down or stop gambling. If you are worried about someone else, see our page for families.