How can you tell when your gambling is an issue?

Do you or someone you know do any of these?

• Gamble to avoid dealing with problems or disappointments
• Skip work or study to gamble
• Spend more time gambling than with family and friends
• Think about gambling every day
• Gamble to win money, not just for fun
• Gamble to win back money lost by gambling
• Feel depressed because of gambling
• Lie or keep secrets about gambling
• Borrow money to gamble
• Argue with family and friends about gambling
• Gamble for longer periods of time than originally planned
• Gamble until every dollar is gone
• Lose sleep due to thinking about gambling
• Don't pay bills and use the money for gambling instead
• Try to stop gambling, but can't.
• Become moody when trying to stop or cut down on gambling
• Try to increase the excitement of gambling by placing bigger bets
• Break the law to get money to gamble

Any one of these things might be a sign that you have an issue with gambling. Even if you're just a bit worried about your gambling or someone else's, it's a good idea to get help sooner rather than later.

For free, confidential, professional help contact Gambler's Help on 1800 858 858, or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.

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