Know the Signs
Warning signs that gambling may be causing harm
Gambling harm can develop gradually and is often not obvious to the person experiencing it.
The following patterns are recognised warning signs. If several of these apply to you or
someone you know, it is time to take action.
Spending more money on gambling than originally planned, and finding it difficult to stop at the pre-agreed limit.
Chasing losses — returning to gamble specifically to try to win back money that was lost in a previous session.
Gambling with money set aside for essential expenses such as rent, utility bills, groceries or children's school fees.
Hiding gambling activity from family members, partners or friends, or lying about the amount of time or money spent.
Borrowing money from friends, family or financial services to fund gambling, or taking cash advances on credit cards for this purpose.
Feeling anxious, irritable or restless when not gambling, or when attempting to reduce gambling activity.
Neglecting work, family responsibilities, social commitments or personal health as a result of time or money spent on gambling.
Gambling as a way to escape stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression or other difficult emotional states rather than as entertainment.
Repeatedly making unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling despite a genuine intention to do so.
Spending significant time thinking about past gambling sessions or planning the next opportunity to play, even during unrelated activities.