How to tell if your gambling is starting to get out of control
MOST of us enjoy some form of gambling from time to time. From lottery tickets or a flutter on the races to a night out at the casino or betting online, the possibility of winning big is hard to resist.
As long as we gamble within the limits of what we can afford, it can be fun, enjoyable and exciting.
However, when we bet too much or too often, it can also quickly become problematic, causing financial difficulties, relationship problems and even mental ill health.
It can be difficult to tell when gambling has become an issue and it is often even harder to admit that it’s a problem.
Some of the common signs include betting more than you can afford to lose, needing to bet larger amounts of money to get the same feelings of excitement, trying to win back money you have lost and borrowing money or selling items to raise money for your habit.
If other people criticise you for gambling or it is causing arguments in your relationships, this is another sign that your ‘occasional flutter’ has become a problem.
It’s also worth reflecting on how gambling makes you feel. Do you enjoy it or do you find that it makes you feel worse?
If it is making you feel down, anxious, stressed or guilty then it’s probably time to stop. really difficult habit to break.
The good news is that there are specialist services and organisations out there for people who are affected by problem gambling and need help to stop.
GamCare is an independent charity which offers free information, advice and support for people with a gambling problem. It runs the 24-hour National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 and also offers face to face counselling.
You can find out more by visiting its website at gamcare.org.uk
Dr Ellie Harper is a counselling psychologist. You can read her blog at drelliepsychology.co.uk