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How Do I Know if I Have a Problem Gambling?<\/h2>\n \n\n
\n We said earlier that one of the keys of ensuring that your gambling remains unharmful is by recognising and being honest with yourself about whether it is becoming a problem<\/strong>. The key here then is being able to understand and recognise the signs. We\u2019ve broken down 10 signs<\/strong> we view as significant in terms of problem gambling behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n 1. Being worried about your gambling\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The fact is that most people who do not have any issues with gambling don\u2019t spend a great deal of time worrying about whether or not it\u2019s a problem. If you are reading this and you are concerned that you may have an issue gambling, then there\u2019s a good chance that is the case. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n 2. Chasing losses\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n We mentioned this earlier and we are going to reiterate it here. Gambling to make up for losses is one of the most dangerous things you can do for your financial and mental health.<\/strong> It is not just something that should be avoided, it is something that if you find yourself doing, you should take seriously as a problem gambling sign.<\/p>\n\n\n 3. Gambling when you do not have the money\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n We put this in third because often, chasing losses leads to gambling when you really cannot afford to do so. If you find yourself gambling to the point you are not leaving yourself enough money for your bills and other outgoings, then it seems likely that your gambling has become a serious problem.<\/strong> If you are gambling even further \u2013 to the point where it is getting you into debt \u2013 then it is virtually certain.<\/p>\n\n\n 4. Loved ones expressing concern about your gambling\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n We spent a lot of time listening to experts \u2013 indeed, many of the support sources we cited above as outlets for help with problem gambling and advice are among them \u2013 and this always ranked consistently as one of the key signs that you have an issue gambling. If your loved ones are expressing concern over your gambling, it is likely for good reason. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n 5. Hiding your gambling\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n Often, in order not to worry their loved ones about the extent of their gambling, a person with an issue gambling will hide the extent. Perhaps you have lead family members who have expressed concern about your gambling in the past to believe you have quit, when that is in fact not the case.<\/p>\n\n
\n Hiding your gambling is a deeply serious sign that your gambling is out of control<\/strong> and that deep down, you are aware of that fact \u2013 otherwise, you would not be making attempts to hide it.<\/p>\n\n\n 6. Excessive time spent gambling\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n For most people, gambling is something they do every now and again for enjoyment. If you\u2019re spending a huge amount of time gambling \u2013 or indeed, thinking about gambling<\/strong> \u2013 you need to recognise that this is not usual behaviour<\/strong>. Gambling should not be allowed to take over your life, which brings us to our next example<\/p>\n\n\n 7. Neglecting other parts of your life\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n If it has gotten to the point where other areas of your life are being neglected \u2013 say for instance, you\u2019ve been avoiding going into work in order to stay at home and gamble<\/strong> \u2013 then it would seem likely that your issues with gambling have become very serious and have fallen into the realms of gambling addiction.<\/strong> If you find yourself at this point, then get yourself help for problem gambling as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n 8. Previous failed attempts trying to control gambling\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n One of the most accurate tests to see whether your gambling has become a compulsion is to see how you feel when you try not gambling for a while<\/strong>. This is why Time-Outs are such a useful tool. If you have not yet done this, and you have concerns, we recommend you do so.<\/p>\n\n\n If, however, you have tried to utilise limits, time-outs or have even tried to quit but failed<\/strong>, then it may be time to seek professional help for problem gambling from one of the options suggested earlier in this article.<\/p>\n\n\n 9. A significant financial impact\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The fact is that if you have a problem gambling, then it is possible you have seen some serious damage to your finances. The reason we say significant financial impact here is because if you place a bet<\/strong> and lost, then some impact would be felt. Say for instance, you bet \u00a310 on the winner of the World Cup and you lose. In this instance, as long as you didn\u2019t bet more than you could afford, then the affect that had on your finances is negligible.<\/p>\n\n\n If, however, you are regularly betting and losing a lot of money, then the impact on your finance can be very severe.<\/strong> If you\u2019ve found yourself struggling due to money lost from gambling, then it would appear your gambling is out of control.<\/p>\n\n\n 10. A significant emotional impact\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n Just as important but often overlooked is the emotional impact problem gambling can have. If you find yourself stressed or irritated because of gambling, or even when you try to stop gambling, then it is likely that gambling has become a negative force in your life. This is even more so if you are feeling depressed and\/or anxious as a result of gambling. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n Always remember that gambling is supposed to be about enjoying yourself. If this is not the result when you bet, it is clear that you may have an issue that you need support for.<\/p>\n\n
\n Challenge the Status Quo of Addiction:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n