Gambling is not always fun. Everyone's experience is different, but here are some general signs of a potential gambling problem. The more signs you recognize, the greater the chance of a problem.

• Constantly thinking or talking about gambling


• Spending more time or money on gambling than you can afford


• Finding it difficult to control, stop, or cut down gambling, or feeling irritable when trying to do so


• Feeling a sense of emptiness or loss when not gambling


• Gambling more in order to win back losses or get out of financial trouble


• Thinking that your gambling will get under control as soon you have a ‘big win’


• Borrowing money, selling things, committing (or considering committing) criminal acts in order to get money for gambling


• Having increased debt, unpaid bills, or other financial troubles because of your gambling


• Often gambling until all of your money is gone


• Needing to gamble with larger amounts of money or for longer periods of time in order to get the same feeling of excitement


• Experiencing extreme highs from gambling wins and extreme lows from gambling losses


• Gambling to escape personal problems or to relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, or loneliness


• Getting irritated more easily or having less patience when dealing with normal, everyday activities


• Feeling guilty about gambling or what happens while gambling


• Getting criticized by others for your gambling


• Having arguments with friends or family about money and gambling


• Refusing to discuss gambling with others or lying to cover it up


• Hiding bills, past due notices, winnings, or losses from your partner or family member


• Gambling instead of attending family or other social functions


• Neglecting family or household responsibilities because of gambling


• Neglecting work because of gambling


• Neglecting personal needs (e.g., for food, sleep, hygiene) because of gambling


• Consistently or always planning holidays where gambling is available

If you are concerned about your gambling, or the gambling of someone you care about, please click here for free and confidential help. You can also contact customer service of bookmakers to know more about tools and helps to resolve your gambling troubles.