13 Early Warning Signs of a Gambling Addiction

1. Chasing Losses

Ever bet more to recoup losses? This is one of the main signs of problem gambling and one of the key items used to calculate the Problem Gambling Severity Index in the UK.

2. Betting Beyond Means

If you’re also gambling away money you can’t afford to lose, you are now exhibiting two major gambling addiction signs. This isn’t just about the cash – it’s about risking your financial security and future.

3. Preoccupation with Gambling

Constantly thinking about gambling? When it dominates your thoughts and distracts you from daily life, it’s a serious issue that might signal an addiction.

4. Hiding Your Gambling

Hiding your gambling addiction symptoms from family and friends is a significant warning sign. This secrecy shows that you know something is wrong. If you haven’t already, now is the time to ask for help.

5. Lying About Gambling

Lying to loved ones about your gambling activities isn’t just deceitful – it’s one of the severe symptoms of gambling addiction. It erodes trust and suggests a deeper issue.

6. Increased Bets Over Time

Gradually increasing your bets even after you’ve reached your max budget? This escalation is one of the classic signs of gambling addiction. You are chasing the thrill but need to risk more to achieve it.

7. Borrowing Money to Gamble

Borrowing money to fund gambling activities indicates you’re in way over your head. This behaviour points to an urgent need to address potential addiction.

8. Neglecting Responsibilities

Neglecting responsibilities involves missing work or important obligations to gamble. This neglect signals a shift in priorities and can strain relationships, jeopardise employment, and lead to significant life disruptions.

9. Mood Swings Related to Gambling

Are your emotions a rollercoaster, wildly swinging between elation after wins and despair after losses? The dependence of your mood on bet results can be hard to notice, but it’s a crucial indicator of addiction.

10. Gambling to Escape

Using gambling as an escape from problems in your life is a dangerous coping mechanism. It provides temporary relief but ultimately worsens underlying issues and creates new ones.

11. Family and Friends Are Concerned

If family and friends express concern towards you, listen up. Their worry reflects a serious problem but also offers a chance for intervention and getting gambling addiction support.

12. Unable to Stop

Struggling to quit gambling despite numerous attempts suggests you’re in deeper than you realise. This is a clear indication that professional help is necessary to break free.

13. Feeling Guilty After Gambling

Do you experience guilt or regret after betting sessions? That nagging feeling is one of those signs of problem gambling that offers you the chance to face yourself and seek help.

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