Gambling is meant to be entertaining. When it stops feeling that way, or when spending, time, or emotional energy begins to feel out of control, it is worth pausing and taking stock. The information on this page is intended to help you make informed decisions about how you gamble.
Recognising Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually and is not always easy to spot in yourself. Some signs that gambling may be causing harm include:
- Spending more money or time gambling than you planned or can afford
- Chasing losses by continuing to play in an attempt to win back money
- Neglecting work, study, family, or other responsibilities because of gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Hiding gambling activity from people close to you
- Using gambling to cope with stress, depression, or other difficult feelings
Experiencing one or more of these signs does not necessarily mean you have a serious problem, but they are useful prompts to reassess your habits honestly.
Setting Personal Limits
Deciding in advance how much money and time you are willing to spend is one of the most practical steps you can take. Treat any amount wagered as the cost of entertainment, not as an investment or a way to generate income. Once a limit is reached, stopping for the session helps prevent impulsive decisions driven by frustration or excitement.
Taking regular breaks, avoiding gambling when tired or emotionally distressed, and never gambling with money set aside for essential expenses such as rent, bills, or food are habits that support healthier play over time.
Getting Help
Online chat and counselling resources are also available at gamblinghelponline.org.au .
Speaking with a counsellor does not commit you to any particular course of action. Many people find that a single conversation helps clarify their situation and identify practical next steps.
Protecting Younger People
Online gambling is restricted to adults. If you share a device with children or younger family members, keeping account credentials private and logging out after each session reduces the risk of underage access. Many internet service providers also offer household-level filtering tools that can block gambling websites as a precautionary measure.
Taking a Break
If you feel you need distance from gambling, self-exclusion schemes allow you to restrict your own access across multiple venues or platforms for a set period. In Australia, the national self-exclusion register for online wagering is BetStop , available at betstop.gov.au .
Self-exclusion works best when combined with support from a counsellor or a trusted person in your life. It is a practical tool, not a complete solution on its own.