Problem gambling is when the urge to gamble becomes uncontrollable and starts to negatively affect your life. It can lead to financial difficulties, relationship problems, and mental health issues.
If gambling is causing you distress or affecting your daily life, it's important to seek help immediately. Support is available and recovery is possible.
Decide how much money you can afford to lose and stick to it. Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to earn money.
Limit the time you spend gambling. Use alarms or reminders to keep track of time.
Take advantage of deposit limits, loss limits, reality checks, and self-exclusion features offered by casinos.
Regular breaks help maintain perspective. Step away from the screen and engage in other activities.
If you lose money, do not try to win it back by gambling more. This is a major risk factor for problem gambling.
Identify situations that make you want to gamble more and try to avoid them. Keep gambling separate from stress relief.
If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you know:
Reach out for help immediately. Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with professional support.
Self-exclusion is a tool that allows you to voluntarily ban yourself from gambling for a specified period. Most UK-licensed casinos offer this feature.
Register on the National Self-Exclusion Scheme (NSES) to self-exclude from multiple UK gambling operators simultaneously.
Learn About GAMSTOPEach casino also allows you to self-exclude directly through your account settings. Choose the duration that works for you.
Check with each casino for their specific self-exclusion options and durations.
If someone you care about is struggling with gambling, there are ways you can help:
National Problem Gambling Clinic: 020 7435 8393
Available weekdays 9 AM - 5 PM. Free and confidential support.