How to recognize the beginning of a dependency
1. Frequent thoughts about the game
Constant return to the idea of the next bet, planning time and amount.
Obsessive fantasies about "advantageous" situations and "achieving big gains."
Reduced interest in other hobbies and leisure activities.
2. Increasing the frequency and size of bets
Transition from one-time "entertainment" bets to regular ones: daily or several times a week.
A gradual increase in the amount of each bet in an attempt to return the lost ("recoup").
Ignoring pre-set personal limits.
3. Play at the wrong time
Gambling during work breaks, before bed or immediately after waking up.
Skipping important meetings and family events because of the desire to do "one more spin."
Postponing household or professional duties for later.
4. First financial signals
Quick bank card transactions: Small but frequent charges to betting sites.
Using credit or loans to continue playing.
Hidden expenses: unwillingness to discuss spending with loved ones, attempts to hide account statements.
5. Emotional instability
Feeling irritable and anxious when unable to place a bet.
Irritability or aggressiveness in communicating with others during "game withdrawal."
Euphoria after winning and instant disappointment at losing, accompanied by a desire to "recoup."
6. Secrecy and deception
Withholding from friends and family the fact of the game: incorrect explanations of expenses or time.
Requests to "lend" without detailed explanation or lies about the purpose of the loan.
Deleting browser history, installing applications in incognito mode.
7. Reduction of control mechanisms
Refusal to use safe play tools: deposit limits, reality checks, self-exclusion.
Ignore constraint reminders and turn off time and expense notifications.
Neglect of advice on breaks and changing activities.
8. Physical manifestations of stress
Sleep disorder: insomnia due to thoughts of play or a debilitating sleepless betting "marathon" at night.
Headaches and back pain from prolonged sitting in front of the screen.
Loss of appetite or, conversely, overeating at moments of emotional "unloading."
9. Social and professional implications
Detachment from the team, avoiding communication when it comes to gambling.
Reduced productivity at work or school, delays, omissions.
The growth of conflicts in the family, the need to protect their "playing time."
10. First steps in identifying signs
1. Self-examination
Take online self-assessment tests on Gambler's Help and Gambling Help Online.
2. Setting up protective tools
Set tight deposit and rate limits.
Activate the self-exclusion function, even for a short time, to interrupt the cycle.
3. Seeking advice
Call the 1800 858 858 hotline for your first conversation and screening.
Get a first step plan: psychological distraction techniques, financial recommendations.
4. Attracting support
Share your anxieties with a trusted friend or family member.
Sign up for an initial consultation with a free financial adviser or psychologist.
Timely recognition of the initial signs of gaming addiction allows you to stop in a timely manner, connect self-control mechanisms and get professional support before the situation gets out of control. Do not ignore the first signals - be proactive.
