Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, income, or background. If you find yourself spending more than you intended or chasing losses, understanding the warning signs and knowing where to turn for help is crucial.

Recognising the warning signs

Gambling becomes problematic when it stops being entertainment and starts affecting your finances, relationships, or mental health. Be alert if you notice yourself thinking about gambling frequently, needing to bet larger amounts to feel the same excitement, or lying about how much you wager. Other red flags include borrowing money to gamble, neglecting family or work commitments, or feeling anxious when you cannot access betting.

Tools and safeguards at your disposal

Most gambling operators are required to provide built-in protection features within your account settings. These typically include deposit limits (a daily, weekly, or monthly cap on how much you can pay in), loss limits (which pause your account if losses reach a set amount), and time-out periods ranging from 24 hours to six weeks for immediate breathing room. Self-exclusion is a longer-term option: once activated, you cannot access your account for at least six months. There is also a national self-exclusion scheme available for those in the UK, which can lock you out of licensed operators simultaneously for periods of 6 months to 5 years.

Getting help and support

Multiple organisations across the UK provide free, confidential support for problem gambling. The National Gambling Helpline offers 24/7 assistance by phone, live chat, and email. The National Problem Gambling Clinic provides specialist treatment for young people aged 13–18 across the UK, and for adults aged 18 and over in London and the South East. The Gordon Moody Association offers residential and online support for severe gambling harm. If you are concerned about someone else’s gambling, these same organisations provide guidance for family members and friends. Your GP can also refer you to NHS gambling support services.