Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can affect anyone. Recognising the warning signs is the first step to getting help.
⚠️ You may have a gambling problem if you:
- Spend more money than you planned on gambling
- Borrow money or sell possessions to gamble
- Feel restless or irritable when trying to stop
- Chase losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Hide your gambling from family or friends
- Neglect work, education, or family responsibilities
- Feel that gambling is your only way to solve financial problems
- Experience mood swings related to gambling wins and losses
- Think about gambling constantly, even when not playing
- Gamble as a way to escape problems or relieve anxiety
- Feel guilt or shame about your gambling behaviour
- Tried to stop gambling but been unable to do so
Help Organisations
These organisations provide free, confidential support to anyone affected by problem gambling in the UK.
A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope to solve their common problem with gambling.
Visit WebsiteThe UK's leading charity for problem gambling. Provides the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and online treatment programmes.
Visit WebsiteThe free national self-exclusion scheme. Register once and be excluded from all UKGC-licensed gambling websites for 6 months, 1 or 5 years.
Self-Exclude NowProvides residential treatment programmes for those with severe gambling disorders. Pioneering therapy and counselling services since 1971.
Visit WebsiteIndependent Betting Adjudication Service — free dispute resolution for players with complaints against licensed UK gambling operators.
Visit WebsiteThe government regulator for commercial gambling in Great Britain. Verify casino licences and report concerns about unlicensed operators.
Visit WebsiteSafer Gambling Tools
Every UKGC-licensed casino we review is required to offer these tools to help you stay in control.
Funding Limits
Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much money you can commit. Limits can be reduced immediately but increases take 24 hours to apply.
Loss Limits
Cap your total losses over a set period. Once the limit is reached, you cannot play until the period resets.
Session Time Limits
Restrict how long you can play in a single session. The casino will log you out when the time expires.
Reality Checks
Receive regular on-screen reminders showing how long you've been playing and your net win/loss for the session.
Cooling-Off Period
Take a short break from 24 hours to 6 weeks. You can't reverse a cooling-off period once it starts.
Self-Exclusion
Exclude yourself from a specific casino for a minimum of 6 months. For UK-wide exclusion, use GamStop.
Tips for Safe Play
Set a Budget
Decide before you play how much you can afford to lose — not win. Treat it as the cost of entertainment.
Set Time Limits
Decide in advance how long you will play. Use your phone's timer as a reminder if needed.
Never Chase Losses
Trying to win back lost money is one of the most dangerous gambling behaviours. If you've lost your budget, stop.
Don't Gamble Impaired
Never gamble when drunk, stressed, depressed, or under the influence of any substance that affects judgement.
Know the Odds
All featured products are designed to give the house an edge over the long term. There is no strategy that guarantees a win.
Take Regular Breaks
Step away from the screen regularly. A break gives you perspective and prevents impulsive decisions.
Keep Gambling Separate
Don't mix gambling with work, family time, or social obligations. Keep it in a distinct, time-limited compartment.
Talk to Someone
If you're worried about your gambling, tell a trusted friend or family member. Hiding it makes it harder to address.
Need Help Right Now?
The National Gambling Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You don't have to be in crisis to call.