Spotting the warning signs
Most people gamble without harm. For some, the signs of a problem appear gradually. The following are the patterns the NHS lists as common indicators:
- Spending more than you can afford, or borrowing money to gamble.
- Hiding gambling from family, friends, or your employer.
- Chasing losses — gambling more in the hope of winning back what you have lost.
- Feeling anxious, restless or irritable when you are not gambling.
- Gambling interfering with work, relationships or sleep.
If two or more of these apply, it is worth speaking to GamCare. The conversation is free, confidential and does not commit you to anything else.
Self-excluding properly
Self-exclusion through a single operator only blocks that operator. Self-exclusion through GAMSTOP blocks every UKGC-licensed operator at once, for a period of your choice between six months and five years. The block cannot be lifted early. We recommend pairing GAMSTOP with a browser-level block such as Gamban for the strongest combination.
Helping someone else
If you are worried about a partner, family member or friend, GamCare runs a separate support service for affected others. You do not need the gambler's permission to call. The charity also runs free in-person and online support groups across the UK.