Gambling Should Be Entertainment — Not a Coping Mechanism

For the vast majority of people, playing slots and other casino games is a form of paid entertainment — like going to the cinema or a sporting event. When gambling remains within affordable limits and doesn't intrude on other areas of life, it can be an enjoyable leisure activity.

However, for some people, gambling can shift from entertainment into something harmful. Recognising when that line is being crossed — in yourself or someone you care about — is an important and potentially life-changing skill.

What Is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is a pattern of gambling behaviour that disrupts personal, family, financial, or professional life. It exists on a spectrum: from mild concerns (gambling slightly more than intended) to severe addiction (gambling compulsively despite serious consequences). The clinical term for the most severe end of this spectrum is Gambling Disorder.

Importantly, problem gambling is not a moral failing or a sign of weakness. It's a recognised condition influenced by psychological, biological, and social factors.

Common Warning Signs

The following behaviours can indicate that gambling has become problematic:

  • Chasing losses — returning to gamble more in order to win back money that was lost
  • Gambling with money needed for essentials — using funds meant for bills, rent, food, or other necessities
  • Hiding gambling activity — being secretive about how much time or money is spent gambling
  • Preoccupation with gambling — constantly thinking about past gambling sessions or planning future ones
  • Failed attempts to cut back — repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
  • Borrowing money to gamble — taking out loans, borrowing from friends/family, or selling possessions to fund gambling
  • Gambling as emotional escape — using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, loneliness, or depression
  • Neglecting responsibilities — work, family, or social obligations suffer because of gambling
  • Restlessness when not gambling — feeling irritable, anxious, or agitated when not able to gamble

A Simple Self-Assessment

Ask yourself these questions honestly:

  1. Have you ever gambled more than you planned to in a single session?
  2. Have you ever lied to someone about your gambling?
  3. Have you gambled to escape stress, worry, or low mood?
  4. Have you tried to win back money you lost by gambling more?
  5. Has gambling caused financial problems for you or your family?
  6. Has gambling caused problems in your relationships or work?

If you answered "yes" to several of these, speaking to a support service is a positive and worthwhile step — not a sign of failure.

Tools to Help You Stay in Control

Before problems escalate, most licensed online casinos offer built-in tools designed to keep gambling manageable:

  • Deposit limits — cap how much you can add to your account per day, week, or month
  • Time limits / Reality checks — reminders that show how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
  • Cool-off periods — temporary breaks (24 hours to several weeks) from your account
  • Self-exclusion — a formal request to be blocked from gambling at one or more casinos for a set period, or permanently
  • Gamstop (UK) — a national self-exclusion scheme covering all UK-licensed online casinos

Where to Get Help

If you're concerned about your gambling, or that of someone close to you, these organisations provide free, confidential support:

  • GamCare (UK) — gamcare.org.uk | National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7)
  • Gamblers Anonymous — ga.org | Peer support groups worldwide
  • BeGambleAware — begambleaware.org | Resources, support finder, and self-assessment tools
  • Gordon Moody Association — gordonmoody.org.uk | Residential treatment programmes
  • NHS (UK) — Your GP can refer you to problem gambling treatment services

Supporting Someone Else

If you're worried about a friend or family member's gambling:

  • Approach them calmly and without judgement — blame and ultimatums rarely help
  • Express concern using "I feel" statements rather than accusations
  • Encourage them to contact a support service, or offer to help them do so
  • Don't cover debts or enable continued gambling
  • Seek support for yourself — GamCare and similar organisations also help affected family members

The Most Important Thing

Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is absolutely possible. Whether you're taking a small step like setting a deposit limit, or a bigger step like calling a helpline, every action in the right direction matters.