Recognising Problem Gambling: Signs and Symptoms

Problem gambling, often referred to as gambling addiction, can have severe consequences for individuals and the people around them. It can cause significant financial, mental and emotional harm, can affect relationships and can affect a person’s livelihood. Unlike casual or recreational gambling, problem gambling is an issue marked by an inability to control gambling habits despite negative consequences. This lack of control can lead to severe impacts on a person’s well-being and can negatively affect the people around them.

Although many people engage in recreational gambling occasionally, the 2023 Health Survey for England (HSE) found that 0.5% of the UK population are problem gamblers and a further 3.8% are at risk of developing a gambling problem. Recognising the early signs and symptoms of problem gambling is crucial, as faster access to help and support can prevent the issue from escalating into a more serious gambling addiction and can help prevent financial, mental and emotional harm. Today we will look at the signs of problem gambling and provide practical guidance on how to address and manage this serious issue.

Understanding Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is a compulsive or uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the negative impact on various aspects of life, including mental health, finances, relationships and responsibilities. This behaviour often persists even when the individual recognises its harmful consequences, which indicates the individual has a lack of control over their urge to gamble.

In contrast, casual or recreational gambling involves both moderation and control. Recreational gamblers approach gambling as a form of entertainment, set clear limits on time and money spent and are generally able to stop when desired. For individuals with problem gambling, however, stopping can be difficult or even feel impossible and this can result in a pattern of excessive betting and financial risk that disrupts their lives.

Problem gambling can have far-reaching effects on an individual’s life and well-being. The financial stress of compulsive gambling often leads to debt, which can increase anxiety, stress and depression. Emotionally, problem gambling can contribute to feelings of shame, guilt and helplessness. It also frequently impacts relationships with family and friends and can create feelings of isolation and negatively affect social support networks. Over time, this cycle of financial and emotional strain often escalates and affects an individual’s overall quality of life and mental health.

Problem gambling is a widespread issue that affects millions of people around the world. Estimates suggest that between 0.1% and 5.8% of the global adult population experiences serious problem gambling. However, the prevalence of problem gambling can vary widely based on cultural and socio-economic factors. It is also important to keep in mind that statistics may not be accurate, as many people with a gambling problem do not seek help and support or may not realise they have a gambling problem. This means that prevalence rates are likely actually higher than statistics suggest.

Several demographic factors can influence the likelihood of developing problem gambling behaviours. Research into gambling-related harms conducted by the UK government found that being male and in younger age groups puts you at a higher risk of developing a gambling problem. They also found that people who are unemployed and those who live in deprived areas are also at higher risk of engaging in harmful gambling.

Poor mental health, such as anxiety and depression, and substance use, specifically using alcohol, cannabis, other illegal drugs and tobacco, were also found to be risk factors. This could be because gambling serves as a coping mechanism. However, it is important to note that people of all ages and demographics can have a gambling problem.

Signs and Symptoms of Problem Gambling

Recognising the signs and symptoms of problem gambling is key to identifying when gambling has escalated from a recreational activity to a serious issue. These signs often appear in behavioural, financial, emotional, psychological and social domains, indicating a pattern of problematic gambling that disrupts multiple areas of life.

Behavioural Signs

Persistent need to gamble with increasing amounts

Individuals with problem gambling often feel the need to increase the amount of money they bet to achieve the same level of excitement or satisfaction. Similar to someone who misuses substances building a tolerance to drugs or alcohol, gambling with small amounts of money may not satisfy the person and they may need to bet higher amounts of money to experience the same excitement.

Inability to cut down or control gambling habits

Attempts to cut down or stop gambling may be unsuccessful, despite the individual’s awareness of the harm it is causing. They may also frequently use excuses to rationalise gambling behaviour, such as claiming it’s a social activity, just a hobby or a way to unwind. This denial or minimisation of the issue can signal a deep-rooted gambling problem.

Chasing losses

A strong urge to try and win back lost money is a hallmark of problem gambling. Rather than stopping after a loss, individuals may continue to gamble in an attempt to recover losses, which often leads to even larger financial setbacks.

Ignoring basic needs

Problem gamblers may prioritise gambling over essential needs, such as food, sleep and health care. They may go without meals, forgo necessary medical visits or neglect personal hygiene due to their obsession with gambling.

Preoccupation with gambling

A constant focus on gambling-related thoughts or plans, such as thinking about the next bet, reliving past gambling experiences or strategising ways to obtain more money for gambling, often signals problem gambling.

Increased risk-taking in gambling

Problem gamblers often escalate the risks they take, including gambling on less familiar games, making high-stakes bets or engaging in illegal betting practices. This willingness to take on bigger risks often reflects their desperation to win money quickly.

Compromising moral values

Individuals may resort to unethical or illegal activities to fund gambling. This can include stealing from family members, embezzling funds at work or committing fraud to obtain gambling money.

Financial Signs

Frequently borrowing money

To sustain gambling habits, individuals may frequently borrow money from friends, family or financial institutions. Some may resort to selling personal belongings or assets to fund their gambling.

Unexplained or excessive financial losses and debt

Regular or substantial losses are a common financial consequence of gambling. This can lead to mounting debts that the individual struggles to repay.

Hidden financial activities or lying about gambling activities

Problem gamblers may conceal financial transactions, create secret bank accounts or lie about the money they spend on gambling to avoid confrontation or judgement.

Emotional and Psychological Signs

Feelings of restlessness, irritability or distress

When attempting to reduce or stop gambling, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety or frustration.

Heightened emotional responses to wins and losses and mood swings

Gambling becomes emotionally all-consuming, with exaggerated highs from wins and intense lows from losses. Individuals may display signs of euphoria when they win, followed by significant distress, frustration or depression when they lose. Emotional highs and lows are common and are often tied to gambling wins and losses. These mood swings can lead to unpredictable behaviour and individuals may become secretive, defensive or argumentative about their gambling habits.

Feelings of guilt and shame

Although problem gamblers may initially deny or minimise their behaviour, they often feel guilt or shame over their gambling habits, especially when faced with financial or social consequences. These feelings may contribute to low self-esteem or increased self-criticism.

Using gambling as a coping mechanism

Many individuals with problem gambling use it as a way to escape from personal problems or as a temporary relief from stress, anxiety or other emotional issues. This behaviour, often referred to as self-medicating, is a type of unhealthy coping mechanism that can create a dependency on gambling as an emotional escape.

Difficulty focusing on other activities

A gambling problem often leads to a loss of interest in other hobbies, pastimes or work-related tasks. The individual’s attention may be dominated by thoughts of gambling and this can make it difficult for them to focus on anything else.

As gambling takes precedence, individuals may isolate themselves from social events or withdraw from loved ones to spend more time gambling. Gambling can become all-consuming and individuals may only want to spend time with other people who also gamble.

Conflicts or strained relationships

Gambling behaviours often lead to tension and arguments, especially when family members or friends become concerned about the impact of gambling on finances and well-being.

Secrecy and deception

In addition to hiding financial transactions, problem gamblers may lie about their whereabouts and spend time alone or in isolation to gamble without interference. This secrecy can extend to hiding gambling activities from family, friends and colleagues.

Neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home

Problem gamblers may struggle to maintain their responsibilities, which can lead to absenteeism, poor performance at work or school or the neglect of household duties and responsibilities.

Assessing the Severity of Problem Gambling

Identifying the severity of problem gambling is essential for determining the appropriate intervention and support. In the UK, healthcare professionals use specific diagnostic criteria and tools to assess whether an individual’s gambling behaviours meet the threshold for a gambling disorder.

The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) is widely used in the UK and internationally to diagnose gambling disorders. According to the DSM-5 criteria, an individual must exhibit at least four of the following behaviours within a 12-month period to be diagnosed with gambling disorder:

A persistent need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired excitement.
Restlessness or irritability when attempting to reduce or stop gambling.
Unsuccessful efforts to control or cut back on gambling.
Preoccupation with gambling, including reliving past gambling experiences or planning future ventures.
Gambling as a way to escape from problems or relieve feelings of helplessness or anxiety.
Chasing losses by attempting to win back lost money.
Lying to family members, therapists or others to conceal the extent of gambling.
Jeopardising or losing relationships, jobs or educational opportunities due to gambling.
Committing illegal acts to finance gambling, such as forgery, fraud, theft or embezzlement.
Relying on others for financial assistance due to gambling-induced financial troubles.

Meeting four or more of these criteria indicates a gambling disorder. Gambling problems can vary in their severity and can be classified as mild, moderate or severe based on the number of criteria met. This professional evaluation is crucial for understanding the scope of the disorder and developing an effective treatment plan.

Accurate diagnosis of gambling disorder requires a comprehensive assessment by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. In the UK, the NHS and specialised clinics provide assessment services. Professional evaluations consider both the frequency and impact of gambling behaviours on various aspects of life.

For individuals who are concerned about their gambling habits, self-assessment tools offer a preliminary way to assess their gambling behaviour. While these tools do not replace professional evaluation, they can help individuals recognise patterns that may indicate a gambling problem.

Two commonly used self-assessment tools include:

Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI)

The PGSI is a widely recognised tool that consists of nine questions designed to assess the frequency and severity of gambling behaviour. Questions focus on behaviours like chasing losses, borrowing money for gambling and the impact of gambling on relationships. Based on the total score, the PGSI classifies individuals as non-problematic, at-risk or experiencing problem gambling.

Lie-Bet Questionnaire

This brief two-question survey is designed to detect potential gambling problems quickly:

Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?
Have you ever lied to people important to you about the extent of your gambling?

Affirmative answers to either or both questions suggest the need for further evaluation and individuals are encouraged to seek help from a professional.

Self-assessment tools are a helpful starting point but individuals experiencing problem gambling should consider reaching out to a professional for a comprehensive evaluation. In the UK, resources such as GamCare, GambleAware and the NHS National Problem Gambling Clinic offer support, including counselling, therapy and group programmes for those impacted by gambling disorder.

Understanding and assessing the severity of gambling behaviours is a key step towards recovery. By using diagnostic criteria and self-assessment tools, individuals and professionals can gain insight into the nature and extent of gambling issues to help people access effective intervention and support.

Impact of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can have significant negative effects, not only on the individual but also on their family, friends and the wider community. The repercussions can be emotional, physical and financial and can affect a person’s overall quality of life.

Personal Impacts

Mental health

Problem gambling is often associated with high levels of stress, anxiety and depression. The continuous worry over financial losses, coupled with feelings of guilt and shame, can lead to a decline in mental well-being. This emotional turmoil is worsened by the secrecy and denial that frequently accompany gambling addiction.

Anxiety and depression are particularly common among individuals with gambling issues, as gambling may initially be used as a coping mechanism for negative emotions. However, as gambling behaviour escalates, it often exacerbates these underlying mental health issues, leading to a vicious cycle of emotional distress and dependency on gambling.

Physical health

The intense stress often associated with problem gambling can result in physical health issues, including headaches, gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure and fatigue. Sleep disturbances are common, as worry over debts and losses disrupt rest.

Over time, the combination of mental and physical stress can increase susceptibility to chronic conditions like heart disease, hypertension and weakened immune function. In extreme cases, individuals may even experience substance abuse issues as they attempt to numb the emotional impact of gambling losses.

Overall quality of life

Problem gambling can reduce quality of life across multiple areas, from career instability and financial distress to social isolation and reduced life satisfaction. Individuals may find that their work performance suffers due to increased absences, a lack of focus or the use of work hours to gamble. Eventually, problem gambling can overshadow previously enjoyed hobbies, interests and personal relationships, creating an overwhelming sense of loss and hopelessness.

Effects on family dynamics and relationships

Gambling addiction can put significant strain on families and often leads to mistrust, resentment and frustration. Family members may feel hurt or betrayed by the secrecy and lies that frequently accompany problem gambling, especially when financial resources are hidden or depleted.

Children in families affected by gambling addiction may experience emotional distress due to inconsistent parenting, financial insecurity or exposure to conflict. The overall family dynamic can become tense, with frequent arguments and a focus on managing or hiding the impact of gambling behaviour. Spouses and partners of problem gamblers often bear the emotional and financial consequences of addiction and this can lead to marital discord, separation or divorce.

Financial hardship is a major consequence of problem gambling and it can have cascading effects on families and communities. Families may be forced to rely on loans, sell valuable assets or use savings intended for other purposes to cover gambling debts. These financial strains can limit access to essential resources, including healthcare, education and housing.

At a community level, problem gambling can contribute to increased demand for social services, mental health resources and financial support programmes. Communities may see a rise in crime rates, particularly with theft or fraud, as individuals attempt to fund their gambling or manage their debts.

Socially, problem gambling can lead to isolation, as individuals withdraw from their usual social circles due to shame, embarrassment or financial strain. This isolation not only harms the individual but also weakens the social fabric of the community, as fewer people are engaged in supportive networks and community activities.

Seeking Help and Support

Recognising problem gambling is the first step towards recovery. A combination of professional support, self-help strategies and the involvement of family and friends can provide a strong foundation for managing and overcoming gambling addiction. Professional support options include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the most effective treatments for problem gambling. It helps individuals identify and alter the thought patterns and behaviours that drive their gambling urges. CBT also provides coping mechanisms to manage triggers and stressors without turning to gambling.

Counselling and psychotherapy

Regular counselling sessions with trained mental health professionals allow individuals to explore the emotional factors underlying their gambling behaviour. Psychotherapy can also help individuals address co-occurring mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression or trauma, that often fuel gambling addiction.

Medication

For some people, medications such as antidepressants or mood stabilisers can help manage the mental health symptoms that accompany gambling addiction. Medication can support treatment efforts but is typically prescribed alongside therapy.

Support groups

Support groups or group therapy sessions allow individuals to connect with others who are experiencing similar struggles. Sharing experiences in a supportive environment, such as in Gamblers Anonymous, can reduce feelings of isolation, increase motivation to stop gambling and provide mutual support for recovery.

There are multiple options available for people in the UK seeking support for gambling problems, including:

GamCare: GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133), open 24/7 for free information, support and counselling. Alternatively, you can choose to chat with GamCare online or through WhatsApp, access email support, connect with the online community or find local support on the GamCare website.
GambleAware: GambleAware works in close collaboration with the NHS and the government and offers advice, tools and support for people experiencing gambling issues.
NHS National Problem Gambling Clinics: The NHS provides specialist gambling treatment clinics located across the UK for people who need support to stop gambling. The clinics have a self-referral option or you can be referred by your GP.
Primary Care Gambling Service (PCGS): PCGS is a free NHS help service for adults experiencing gambling-related harm. They also offer support with the physical, social and mental health difficulties associated with gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous: Currently in England, Wales and Ulster, Gamblers Anonymous offer local meetings for people who prefer face-to-face support. They offer 12-step recovery meetings, meetings that friends and family can also attend, peer meetings that are free of professionals and meetings designed specifically for certain demographics (e.g. women or LBTQIA+).

Alongside professional support, there are also some self-help strategies that can help individuals manage their gambling and reduce problem behaviours. These include:

Setting limits and boundaries

Establish clear boundaries for the amount of time and money you can spend on gambling. Creating a budget, setting spending limits and allocating specific time for non-gambling activities can help control urges.

Avoiding triggers

Identify the places, people or emotional states that trigger gambling urges and find ways to avoid or manage them. Replacing gambling with other fulfilling activities can help build positive habits.

Stress management

Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and journaling can help manage stress and impulsive urges. These practices encourage self-awareness and emotional regulation, which can reduce the desire to gamble.

Focusing on financial responsibility

Consider freezing or restricting access to bank accounts, avoiding credit cards and seeking financial advice to regain control of finances. There are also online tools and apps that help track expenses, promoting greater financial responsibility.

Recovery from gambling addiction is more manageable with a strong support network of family, friends and peers who encourage and motivate positive changes. In addition to support groups, staying engaged in healthy activities like sports, hobbies or volunteer work can fill the gap that gambling once occupied and provide purpose and enjoyment without the risks associated with gambling.

Family and friends play a crucial role in supporting someone through recovery. Offering non-judgemental listening, expressing genuine concern and showing empathy can help the person feel understood and valued. Loved ones can encourage professional help and provide practical support, such as helping to manage finances or joining them in a support group. They can also remind the individual of their progress and help them celebrate small victories, which can reinforce healthy behaviours.

Open and honest communication is vital for building trust and maintaining healthy relationships. Family and friends should create a safe space where the individual feels comfortable discussing their struggles without fear of judgement or criticism. Loved ones can gently express their concerns while encouraging the person to share their feelings. This ongoing dialogue can help the individual recognise how their behaviour affects those around them, which can help to foster accountability and a desire to change.

Prevention and Education

Preventing problem gambling and raising awareness about its risks is essential for reducing its impact on individuals, families and communities. Through educational programmes and community resources, people can become more informed about responsible gambling practices and find support if needed.

School-based education

Many programmes target young people in schools to educate them about the risks associated with gambling. These programmes focus on teaching students about the potential harms of gambling, promoting financial literacy and building resilience to peer pressure and risky behaviours. Early intervention can prevent young people from developing problem gambling behaviours later in life.

Workplace and community education

Some workplaces and community centres offer educational sessions that cover the risks of gambling addiction, recognising signs of problem gambling and promoting responsible behaviour. These programmes also offer resources for people who may need help for themselves or family members.

Self-exclusion programmes

Many casinos, betting sites and online platforms allow individuals to self-exclude from gambling. Programmes like GamStop in the UK enable people to voluntarily restrict their access to all licensed online gambling sites. This approach empowers individuals to take control by preventing access to high-risk environments.

Public awareness campaigns are vital in educating the general public about the potential dangers of gambling addiction. Organisations like GambleAware and GamCare run campaigns aimed at reducing stigma, promoting open discussion and highlighting available support for those affected by problem gambling. Campaigns often include advertisements, social media initiatives and informative brochures available in community spaces.

Responsible gambling practices encourage individuals to set limits on time and money spent on gambling and to avoid chasing losses. The UK Gambling Commission and licensed operators often promote responsible gambling messages and tools, such as budget trackers, time limits and alerts, that allow players to set boundaries. Awareness of these tools and how to use them helps individuals engage in gambling more safely and reduces the risk of addiction.

Conclusion

Recognising the signs and symptoms of problem gambling is crucial to preventing its destructive impact on individuals, families and communities. By understanding the behavioural, financial and emotional indicators of problem gambling, people can identify issues early and intervene before the addiction escalates. Awareness of these signs empowers individuals to seek help and encourages a proactive approach to managing and overcoming gambling-related challenges.

Taking action against problem gambling involves a combination of professional support, self-help strategies and a strong network of family and friends. Resources such as cognitive behavioural therapy, support groups and national helplines offer pathways to recovery for those struggling with gambling behaviours. Family and friends also play an essential role by providing understanding and encouragement and can help loved ones make positive changes.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of problem gambling, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Remember, support is available at every step of the journey to recovery. The resources below can help someone struggling with problem gambling take the first step towards a healthier, balanced life free from the harmful effects of gambling:

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