How to understand that it's time to stop: signals to stop the game

Introduction

Continuing to play against the plan, many do not notice how the excitement becomes intrusive. Timely recognition of key signals is the first step to interrupting a vicious cycle. Here are clear markers that will tell you: it's time to pause.

1. Changes in behavior

Non-compliance with own limits:

Regularly exceeding the planned time and budget, despite the intention to "play a little bit."

Reduced control over sessions:

Attempts to "look quickly" turn into several hours in a row; plans for the day are pushed back.

Gradual increase in rates:

To "feel excitement," you increase the amount, even if previously it was considered too high.

2. Emotional cues

Irritability and anxiety:

When you try to exit the game or turn off the device, you experience internal discomfort, anxiety or aggression.

Intrusive thoughts:

The game takes the mind constantly: even outside sessions you think about strategy, check the balance or CTL + Z betting history.

Guilt and shame:

After the session, you feel shame for the money spent, but you cannot stop due to "incompleteness."

3. Financial indicators

Unexpected write-offs:

The appearance of transactions that you do not remember (auto-renewal of the subscription, unexpected replenishment).

Use of credit funds:

Attempts to patch gaps using credit cards, microloans or borrowing from friends.

Debt burden growth:

The balance on the card goes into negative territory, and you start paying interest on the overdraft instead of planning a budget.

4. Cognitive biases

Illusion of "close gain":

Belief that "another bet" will correct the situation and return everything lost.

Selective memory:

Memorizing win sequences and forgetting a series of small or large losses.

Rationalization:

Explanation of losses by external circumstances: "the Internet failed," "today is not my day."

5. Social implications

Cooling relationships:

Relatives complain about your remoteness; you refuse appointments to "take another minute" to stay online.

Conflicts over money:

Quarrels with a partner or parents about expenses; the threat of loss of trust and support.

Isolation:

Reduction of non-player friends, as you prefer to chat in casino chats.

6. Self-diagnosis: checklist

Check Yes or No for each question:

1. Do I exceed my planned budget more than twice in a row?

2. Is it difficult for me to stop playing after reaching the time limit?

3. Do I feel irritated when trying to stop?

4. Am I dreaming of a "last chance" to reclaim what I lost?

5. Do I use credit or other people's money for new rates?

6. Did my communication with my family and friends decrease due to the game?

7. Do I feel guilt or shame after gaming sessions?

💡 If "Yes" for 3 or more questions, this is a serious signal: it's time to stop the game and seek support.

7. First practical steps

1. Set limits immediately:

For the next session, set hard time and sum limits (for example, no more than 30 minutes and 10 AUD).

2. Trigger break:

Disable casino notifications, uninstall the application and block the site through a router or DNS filter.

3. Alternative activity:

If you want to play, switch to physical activity (walking, sports) or brief meditation.

4. Seeking help:

Call Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858) or find the Gamblers Anonymous group in your area.

5. Support for loved ones:

Frankly tell a friend or family member about your difficulties and agree on "control calls" in moments of weakness.

Conclusion

To recognize the time to stop is to protect yourself from further loss and the devastating effects of addiction. Clear self-diagnosis, reasonable restrictions and support from professionals or loved ones will help you regain control of your own life.