Signs of gambling harm
Many Australians view gambling as a normal recreational or social activity. Some gambling products include electronic gaming machines like the pokies, online wagering like betting on sports, the Lotto, and even Instant Scratchies.
Most people think they know their limits, but some develop a poor relationship with gambling, which negatively impacts their life and, sometimes, the lives of those around them.
Check your gambling with Gambling Help Queensland’s gambling harm questionnaire.
What gambling harm is
Gambling harm is any negative consequence experienced by an individual or members of their social network because of participation in gambling.
Gambling harm is on a spectrum ranging from minor negative experiences to crises. The amount of harm is not always in proportion to the amount of gambling someone is participating in.
Family members, including partners, children and parents of those who gamble, can also experience gambling-related harm.
Gambling harm can include:
- relationship difficulties
- health problems
- emotional or psychological distress
- financial problems
- issues with work or study.
Relationship, financial, health and emotional/psychological harm are the most often reported types of gambling-related harm.
Signs to watch out for
If someone displays the following behavioural changes, it may indicate they are experiencing gambling harm:
- spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- arguing with family and friends after gambling
- after losing, having an urge to return as soon as possible to win back losses
- feeling guilty or remorseful about gambling
- borrowing money or selling assets to gamble
- getting money illegally to use for gambling
- missing work or other commitments to gamble
- hiding the extent of their gambling.
Safer gambling
These ideas may help you engage in safer gambling:
- Don't let the game play you.
- Don’t gamble to escape stress or boredom.
- Set spending limits in advance and don’t break them.
- Don’t chase your losses. Leave. Walk away.
- Gamble only what you can afford to lose.
- Never borrow money to gamble.
- Remember, your odds of winning are low—see the real odds of winning when gambling.
Where to get help
If you feel like you’ve lost control of your gambling, free and confidential support is available 24/7. Call the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 or visit Gambling Help Online for information and counselling services.
More information
- Download the 'You can control your gambling' self-help guide.
- Learn how to ban yourself (self exclude) from a gambling venue.