Gambling addictions

Signs of a gambling addiction

A gambling addiction isn't always easy for someone to admit to. In fact, people who who have a problem with gambling often lie about their betting habits or try to hide them from others. If you’re worried that you or a friend might have a gambling addiction, here are some common signs:

• You think or talk about gambling all the time.
• You spend more money or time on gambling than you intend to.
• You gamble when you feel sad, anxious or distressed.
• You spend more and more money to get the same ‘kick’ or rush.
• You bet more and more money to try and make up for past losses.
• You’ve repeatedly tried to stop or reduce your gambling without success.
• You become irritable or restless when you try to cut back on your gambling.
• Gambling is having a negative effect on your relationships, work or study.
• You rely on other people for money, because of your gambling losses.
• You feel depressed or are having suicidal thoughts.

Negative effects

Problem gambling impacts on every part of your life.

Social impacts

• Falling into debt and not having enough money for your everyday expenses.
• Increased conflict with your partner, neglect or mistreatment of your family members, and loss of friendships.
• Underperforming, failing subjects or losing your job.

Emotional impacts

• Higher rates of distress and mental illness.
• In particular, high incidence of depression and anxiety.
• Episodes of irritability, anger, guilt, shame and loneliness.

Behavioural impacts

• Higher chance of substance abuse and drug addiction.
• Higher rates of problem drinking and smoking.
• Frequently taking prolonged leave from work, home life and other normal settings.

Getting help for gambling addiction

The good news is that there are a wide range of treatment options and resources available to help you manage a gambling addiction. Professional help is recommended, but a variety of self-help and supported options are also available, including the following:

Online

• Visit Gambling Help Online, Gamblers Anonymous or Problem Gambling Australia for further information, tools and support.
• Watch videos of people talking about their experiences of problem gambling.

Over the phone

• Ring the Gambling Help Line on 1800 858 858, for free 24/7 telephone counselling.
• Call the Financial Counselling Hotline on 1800 007 007 for assistance with financial difficulties.
• Speak to a telephone counsellor at Lifeline, for 24/7 support with any personal difficulties or distress.

In person

• Share experiences and work towards recovery from a gambling addiction with others by joining Gamblers Anonymous or SMART Recovery.
• Speak to your GP about a referral to a specialist service.
• Contact Relationships Australia or the Salvation Army to participate in counselling and programs aimed at overcoming addictions and managing associated problems.