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Gambling addiction: signs and where to get help

Gambling addiction is a recognised condition, not a lack of willpower. If gambling is costing you money, sleep or relationships, help is free and confidential, and you can start today.

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Last updated
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9 min read
Table of Content 9
  1. If you are worried
  2. Signs to take seriously
  3. What gambling addiction is
  4. Signs in yourself
  5. Signs others may notice
  6. First steps
  7. Recovery is possible
  8. Where to get help
  9. Gambling addiction: questions

If you are worried

  1. Stop

    Pause play now: use a time-out or self-exclusion in every casino account.

  2. Block

    Install a blocking app on your phone and computer.

  3. Money

    Hand over card control or set bank limits with someone you trust.

  4. Talk

    Contact Gambling Therapy or Gamblers Anonymous, or tell someone close to you.

So what

Signs to take seriously

  • Chasing losses

    Betting more to win back what you lost.

  • Borrowing or selling

    Using loans, savings or belongings to gamble.

  • Hiding it

    Lying to family or friends about time or money spent.

  • Losing control

    Playing longer or with more money than you planned, again and again.

Full text

What gambling addiction is

Problem gambling is gambling you cannot control, that continues despite harm to your finances, work, health or relationships. Online casinos make it easier to play alone, at any hour, from a phone, and large welcome bonuses can keep you betting longer than you planned.

Signs in yourself

  • Thinking about gambling most of the day.
  • Raising stakes to feel the same excitement.
  • Chasing losses.
  • Gambling with savings, school fees or borrowed money.
  • Feeling restless or irritable when you try to stop.
  • Neglecting work, study or family.
  • Hiding how much you play.

Signs others may notice

  • Money problems with no clear cause.
  • Mood swings tied to wins and losses.
  • Falling performance at work or school.
  • Avoiding friends and family events.

First steps

  1. Use self-exclusion or a time-out in every casino account you hold.
  2. Install a blocking app such as BetBlocker or Gamban on every device.
  3. Remove saved cards and wallets from casino accounts.
  4. Talk to someone you trust and contact a support service.
  5. Write down why you want to stop, and read it when the urge comes.

Recovery is possible

Many people stop or regain control with support. Slips happen; they are part of recovery, not a reason to give up. Our responsible gaming page explains the account tools to use if you keep playing.

Free support

Where to get help

Free and confidential. You do not need to stop gambling before you contact them.

Gambling addiction: questions

What is gambling addiction?

A pattern of gambling you cannot control, which continues despite the harm it causes.

How can I tell if I have a problem?

If you chase losses, borrow to play, hide it or cannot stop when you plan to, take it seriously and talk to someone.

How can I prevent it?

Set deposit and time limits, never play with money for bills or savings, and take regular breaks.

Can I stop on my own?

Some people do, but support makes it easier. Blocking tools and someone you trust help a lot.

Where can I find support in Nigeria?

Gambling Therapy offers free online support that you can use from Nigeria, and Gamblers Anonymous runs online meetings.

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