Most people in their lives have placed the odd bet or two. It might have been for a popular sporting event, bingo or cards with friends. But what if the habit becomes more serious? Do you know how to spot if you have a problem? There are red flag gambling signs to look out for so you can identify addiction, thankfully there are plenty of resources out there to help you too.

Here are some of the signs you should look out for:

Overthinking

You may start to have intrusive thoughts about gambling. These may well start to affect your interest in other hobbies, work or even your significant other! If you have slipped into this dynamic, then it surely is time to find some form of counselling for your potential addiction.

Budget

Most of us have our weekly or monthly budgets set. Me for example have all the essentials timed to go out of my account within the first few days of the month. Other than food that leaves any extras to go towards the unessential’s in life. If however you are an addicted  gambler you may find that the start of each month you have less and less money for those essentials.

Hiding your bets

There are a couple of signs to watch out for here. You might not be completely truthful about your trip to the shops having popped into the bookies to place a couple of bets. Or screening your browser history to remove any betting related content.

Stepping up the pace

This aspect is where your going to know you have a problem. Once you start stepping up the number of bets you place a day or the cash value of the bets. You can soon find you are chasing the same rush you get from gambling more often, getting numb to small wins and losses.

Unrealistic goals

Some gamblers find their way into their addiction by trying to get out of a financial problem. This can soon get out of hand and you find yourself in a bigger hole. Only to look at gambling further to attempt to get straight. Some time you need to step back and give yourself a financial overhaul.

What can you do to give up?

There are several ways to try and quit your habit. Most online bookies have the ability to set limits. This can be a financial limit or time limit on the use of the website. Often able to self-exclude completely for a set time. If you have been strong enough to close you online account, there is the issue that you can set up with another provider easily. So it’s worth using technology to your benefit by downloading website blocking software.

If your habit is in a physical shop, speak with the management team and ask them to exclude you for a period of time just like you would with the online bookie.

If you need additional support find some professional help. Often having the support of family and friends can help. But having additional independent help from the likes of Gamblers Anonymous can set firm boundaries for you. Cognitive behavioural therapy often works well to break these gambling habits.

Just remember if you do have an addiction you’re not alone, seek the help and support and get your life back on track.