frequently borrows money or asks for salary advances.

has mood swings and sudden outbursts of anger.seems far away or anxious, or has difficulty paying attention.is gone for long, unexplained periods of time.

cheats or steals to get the money to gamble or pay debts.

is less willing to spend money on things other than gambling.

leaves children alone, seems less concerned about who looks after them, neglects their basic care.

has conflicts with other people over money.

ignores self-care, work, school or family tasks.

changes patterns of sleep, eating or sex.

stops doing things he or she previously enjoyed.

Instead, there are common behavioural, emotional, financial and health signs. However, there are no visible signs or physical changes that will indicate a gambling problem. Gambling problems share many similarities with other addictive disorders. They are more likely to use gambling to escape from problems and to get relief from anxiety. People with gambling problems this severe are unable to control the urge to gamble, despite the harm it causes. Pathological gambling: For a small but significant number of people, gambling seriously harms all aspects of their lives. Harmful involvement: These people are experiencing difficulties in their personal, work and social relationships. It is their main form of entertainment, but it does not come before family and work. Serious social gambling: These people play regularly. These are not discrete categories but possible points along a range of involvement, from not gambling at all to pathological gambling.Ĭasual social gambling: Most people gamble casually, buying the occasional raffle or lottery ticket or occasionally visiting a casino for entertainment. Gambling problems occur along a continuum. Some people develop gambling problems suddenly, others over many years. People with gambling problems are found in all age groups, income groups, cultures and jobs. Not all people who gamble excessively are alike, nor are the problems they face.

causes problems with family or friends.

harms the person’s mental or physical health.

gets in the way of work, school or other activities.

Gambling problems can affect a person’s whole life. Problem gambling is not just about losing money.

How to stop gambling at casinos