How to tell if gambling is becoming a problem

Gambling is a form of financial risk entertainment. The problem begins where control, time, money and relationships begin to suffer. Below is a brief map of signs and practical steps. This is not a diagnosis, but a guideline that helps to seek support on time.

1) "Red Flags": what to look for

Behaviour and timing

Play more often and longer than planned; attempts to "recoup."

Hiding time in the game, switching between applications/devices, night sessions.

Unsuccessful attempts to shorten/stop the game.

Finance

Spending over budget, debts, loans from friends/MFIs, account delinquencies.

Rising rates after losses; use of money intended for other purposes.

Indecision or lies about amounts.

Emotions and condition

Irritability, anxiety, depression between sessions.

"Tunnel" thinking: thoughts only about the game, reduced interest in other activities.

Loss of sleep, changes in appetite.

Relationships and work/study

Missed appointments, reduced productivity, conflict.

Hiding the game from a partner/family, breakups.

Cognitive biases

Belief in "series that should happen," "almost winning," "luck control."

Reassessing a skill where the outcome is random.

💡 One sign itself is not yet a "verdict." Frequency, intensity and impact on life are important.

2) Express self test (2 minutes)

Check yes/no for the last 12 weeks:

1. Have you ever played longer or more than you planned?

2. Did you try to shorten/stop the game, but could not?

3. Did you return to "recoup" after losing?

4. Did you have to borrow money or sell things because of the game?

5. Have there been conflicts at home/work over the game?

6. Were there amounts/time withheld, feelings of shame/guilt?

7. Did sleep, mood or interest in other activities decline?

8. Did you use "game" money intended for other obligations?

9. Did you play alone and secretly so that "no one gets in the way"?

10. Did you feel anxious/annoyed when you can't play?

Interpretation (not diagnosis):

0-1 "yes": low risk, keep self-control rules.
2-3 "yes": increased risk - it is worth setting limits and taking a "break of 7-30 days."
≥4 "yes": high probability of problem game - it is recommended to contact a specialist and activate protection measures (see below).

3) Where the border is: "healthy" vs "problematic"

Criterion	Healthy play	Problem game
Budget	Fixed, does not affect liabilities	Overspending, debt, "money from the future"
Time	Scheduled, there are breaks	Night/long sessions, case cancellations
Control	Easy to stop	"Can't Turn Off," Wagering Attempts
Emotions	Neutral/fun	Irritation, guilt, anxiety
Transparency	Openness with loved ones	Cover-up, lies

4) What to do in the next 24-72 hours (action plan)

In 10 minutes:

Write down the debts/expenses and minimum liabilities for the month.
Set strict limits: deposit, loss, time with "cooling" when increasing.
Turn on Reality Check.
Install the gambling site/application blocker on devices (and for the browser).

Within 24 hours:

Take a "break" 7-30 days (self-exclusion/cool-off) on the platforms used.
Tell the trustee briefly: "I have difficulties with the game, I set (a) limits and a break."
Transfer payments for obligations to "auto payment" so that money does not "flow" into the game.

Within 72 hours:

Schedule a consultation: a psychologist/psychotherapist with experience of addictions or a specialized help line.
Set up financial hygiene: a separate "game" card with limits or a complete shutdown, a ban on loans.
Make an "anti-catalog of triggers": time of day, emotions, alcohol, specific games/channels - and alternatives to them.

5) Self-help tools

Limits and pauses: deposits/losses/bets/time, "cooling" when increasing.

Self-exclusion: temporary or long-term at the platform/operator level.

Blockers and filters: apps/extensions, family modes on devices.

Budget glider: we fix mandatory expenses, "free balance" - without loans.

Trigger diary: a short note "what felt (a) → what played (a) → the result → an alternative."

Support: mutual assistance groups, individual therapy, family consultations.

💡 If there are thoughts of self-destruction or a feeling of "losing control" - this is not about willpower, but about the need for support. Reach out to professionals.

6) How to talk to a loved one if you worry about him/her

How to say: "I" -messages, facts, without accusations.

'I worry because the bills aren't paid and you often stay up at night. Let's see the options together.'

Offer practical help: set up limits/pauses, go to a specialist.

Agree on the boundaries: you do not give money to play, do not cover debts, but are ready to support treatment.

Avoid: "Pull yourself together," "Just stop," accusations and shame.

7) When urgent help is needed

Thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or self/other harm.

A sharp increase in debts, threats of collectors, the risk of loss of housing/work.

Symptoms of severe depression, panic attacks, alcohol/substance abuse.

Action: Contact your country's emergency services (in the EU - 112), contact your local gambling addiction hotline or your nearest crisis help/mental health service. If not sure, start with a family doctor/psychotherapist - they will prompt routing.

8) Operator/Provider Memo: Early RG Signals

Increasing sessions and lengthening "tails" at night, a series of deposits in a short period.

"Chasing a loss," rising rates after a loose streak.

Frequent cancellations of cashout, requests for credit limits.

Ignore reality-check, waive limits, complain about "too many reminders."

Interventions: soft nooji/pause, offer limits, hide aggressive promo, escalate to support and if necessary - temporary block.

9) Myths vs facts

Myth: "I control luck, you just have to wait for the series."

Fact: Slots and roulette are random; past spins do not affect future ones.

Myth: "The problem is when you lose a lot."

Fact: The criterion is loss of control and harm to life, not an absolute amount.

Myth: "It's a shame to ask for help."

Fact: An early request is the most effective step; it's about responsibility, not weakness.

10) Short checklist "Am I on the right track?"

Limits and reality-check are set.
7-30 day break or self-exclusion activated.
Blockers are enabled on all devices.
Budget and mandatory payments are protected.
Specialist consultation/help line scheduled.
The loved one is aware and supportive.
There is a list of triggers and alternatives (sports, walking, calling a friend, sleeping).

Problem play is not "character," but a combination of behavioral and cognitive factors that can and should be controlled. Spot signals, use monitoring tools, take short breaks and feel free to seek help. The sooner you start, the easier it is to regain control - and save money, relationships and health.