How to know you need help
Introduction
It can be difficult to understand that excitement is out of control. But there are clear signs: gambling addiction is gradually developing, and early intervention reduces damage. Below are specific markers that you will immediately notice: it's time to seek support.
1. Obsessive thoughts about the game
Constant plans: You're thinking about the next bet for more than an hour a day.
Difficulties to distract: any news or talk about sports and casinos cause a desire to go in and bet.
First reaction to stress: with problems or boredom, you immediately think about the game.
What to do: Acknowledge this fact and take a quick PGSI test on Gamblers Help.
2. Loss of financial control
Frequent replenishment: make money before you have time to realize the previous losses.
Occupation loans: take loans or use credit cards for bets.
Hidden costs: Debit cards you don't remember.
What to do: set deposit and loss limits in your personal account; if it doesn't help, call the 1800 858 858 hotline.
3. Negative impact on relationships
Quarrels and mistrust: loved ones complain about your behavior or financial problems.
Isolation: You prefer the game to meeting friends and family.
Secrecy: Hide bets and amounts spent.
What to do: involve a "controller" - a trusted person who will help monitor your limits and remind you of a call to Gamblers Help.
4. Emotional and physical symptoms
Irritability and anxiety: Without access to the casino, feel anxious.
Fatigue and insomnia: late gaming sessions interfere with sleep.
Psychosomatic complaints: headaches and heart palpitations during the game or when trying to stop.
What to do: Activate casino timeout (5-60 min) and set up reality checks every 15-30 min; in case of exacerbation, immediately call Lifeline: 13 11 14.
5. Attempts to stop are unsuccessful
A few failed attempts: after promises to "play less," you come back again.
Impulsive decisions: lower limits, but later raise them again.
Feeling "hopeless": It feels like you won't be able to stop on your own.
What to do: Get self-exclusion for 30-90 days through BetStop and contact Gamblers Help consultants to develop a plan.
Conclusion
The first signs of addiction - intrusive thoughts, a financial crisis, damaged relationships, physical symptoms and unsuccessful attempts to stop - say: help is needed. Don't delay: call 1800 858 858 (Gamblers Help) or 13 11 14 (Lifeline) - free and confidential support is available around the clock.
It can be difficult to understand that excitement is out of control. But there are clear signs: gambling addiction is gradually developing, and early intervention reduces damage. Below are specific markers that you will immediately notice: it's time to seek support.
1. Obsessive thoughts about the game
Constant plans: You're thinking about the next bet for more than an hour a day.
Difficulties to distract: any news or talk about sports and casinos cause a desire to go in and bet.
First reaction to stress: with problems or boredom, you immediately think about the game.
What to do: Acknowledge this fact and take a quick PGSI test on Gamblers Help.
2. Loss of financial control
Frequent replenishment: make money before you have time to realize the previous losses.
Occupation loans: take loans or use credit cards for bets.
Hidden costs: Debit cards you don't remember.
What to do: set deposit and loss limits in your personal account; if it doesn't help, call the 1800 858 858 hotline.
3. Negative impact on relationships
Quarrels and mistrust: loved ones complain about your behavior or financial problems.
Isolation: You prefer the game to meeting friends and family.
Secrecy: Hide bets and amounts spent.
What to do: involve a "controller" - a trusted person who will help monitor your limits and remind you of a call to Gamblers Help.
4. Emotional and physical symptoms
Irritability and anxiety: Without access to the casino, feel anxious.
Fatigue and insomnia: late gaming sessions interfere with sleep.
Psychosomatic complaints: headaches and heart palpitations during the game or when trying to stop.
What to do: Activate casino timeout (5-60 min) and set up reality checks every 15-30 min; in case of exacerbation, immediately call Lifeline: 13 11 14.
5. Attempts to stop are unsuccessful
A few failed attempts: after promises to "play less," you come back again.
Impulsive decisions: lower limits, but later raise them again.
Feeling "hopeless": It feels like you won't be able to stop on your own.
What to do: Get self-exclusion for 30-90 days through BetStop and contact Gamblers Help consultants to develop a plan.
Conclusion
The first signs of addiction - intrusive thoughts, a financial crisis, damaged relationships, physical symptoms and unsuccessful attempts to stop - say: help is needed. Don't delay: call 1800 858 858 (Gamblers Help) or 13 11 14 (Lifeline) - free and confidential support is available around the clock.
