Gambling harm can affect you or someone you know in different ways. Recognising the signs early can help you take action.
Behavioural signs
- Spending a lot of time in gambling venues or betting online
- No longer enjoying activities you used to
- Changes in sleep or eating habits
- Ignoring self-care, work, school or family tasks
- Using alcohol or drugs more often
- Neglecting personal or parental responsibilities.
Emotional signs
- Feeling regret about gambling
- Mood swings, frustration or anger taken out on family or friends
- Complaining about stress, anxiety or trouble sleeping
- Feeling bored, restless, depressed, or even suicidal
Financial signs
- Frequently asking for emergency money without explaining why
- Having ongoing money problems that don’t make sense
- Living in a nearly empty house (very little food, no utilities, little furniture)
- Having legal troubles related to gambling.
Health signs
- Headaches
- Digestive problems
- Trouble sleeping
- Overeating, or loss of appetite.
Concerned about your gambling?
It’s easy to lose track of your spending or think about gambling more often than you did before.
Find out more on the Gambler's Help website
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