Gambling addiction

Why people get hooked

• Instant results: wins feel rewarding and losses drive the urge to win back.
• Easy access: online casinos are open all day on every phone.
• Privacy: nobody sees you play, so nobody notices.
• Bonuses: offers encourage more deposits than planned.
• Escape: gambling as a break from stress becomes a habit.
• Illusion of control: believing skill or systems can beat the house edge.

Signs to watch for

Signs you may notice in yourself

• Thinking about gambling most of the time.
• Needing bigger stakes for the same excitement.
• Chasing losses.
• Using savings or money for essentials.
• Restlessness or irritability when you try to stop.
• Neglecting work, family or other duties.
• Hiding how much you gamble.
• Betting on anything available, even things you know nothing about.

Signs others may notice

• Unexplained money problems or loans.
• Mood swings, especially after losses.
• Slipping at work.
• Avoiding social events.

One or two signs do not mean addiction, but they are a reason to look honestly at your gambling.

Steps to prevent it

• Set time, money and frequency limits, and a point at which you stop.
• Learn how the odds work; no system beats the house edge.
• Use self-exclusion, limit alerts and blocking apps.
• Talk to people you trust and review your habits with them.

How to stop

1. Admit there is a problem.
2. Remove access: delete apps, self-exclude, install a blocker.
3. Call SARGF on 0800 006 008 for free counselling.
4. Hand day-to-day control of money to someone you trust for a while.
5. Fill the time with other activities.
6. Join a support group such as Gamblers Anonymous.
7. Keep reviewing your reasons for stopping.

Recovery is possible

Many people stop gambling and rebuild their finances and relationships. It starts with asking for help, and the help is free.