Core rules for staying in control
- Only bet if you are legally permitted and at least 18 years old.
- Use only money that is genuinely affordable to lose.
- Set deposit, loss, stake and time limits before betting.
- Never chase losses or increase stakes to recover money quickly.
- Do not borrow money or use rent, bills, savings or emergency funds.
- Avoid betting while angry, distressed, tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Take regular breaks and maintain non-gambling interests.
- Keep an honest record of money and time spent.
- Use operator limits, blocking software or self-exclusion when control becomes difficult.
- Ask for help early. You do not need to wait for a crisis.
Warning signs
- Thinking about betting for much of the day
- Increasing stakes to feel excitement
- Trying to win back losses immediately
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about spending
- Missing payments or using borrowed money
- Feeling anxious, irritable or unable to stop
- Gambling to escape stress, sadness or other problems
- Conflict with family, work or relationships
- Repeatedly breaking self-imposed limits
If several warning signs apply, stop betting, remove access to gambling funds, use self-exclusion or blocking tools, and contact a qualified support service.
Practical controls
Financial limits
Set strict deposit, loss and stake limits. Do not raise them during a losing period.
Time limits
Schedule breaks, avoid continuous live betting and track the total time spent.
Access controls
Use self-exclusion, account closure, device blocking tools and bank gambling blocks where available.
For family and friends
Approach the person without blame. Focus on specific behaviour and its effects, encourage professional support, protect shared finances and avoid lending money that may be used for gambling.
Protecting minors
Keep gambling accounts, payment methods and devices secure. Do not normalise betting as a reliable way to earn money. Explain that advertising and winning stories do not show the full risk.
Support resources
Gambling Therapy
International online support and information for people affected by gambling.
Visit Gambling Therapy →GamCare
Information, advice and support services, primarily for people in Great Britain.
Visit GamCare →GAMSTOP
Online self-exclusion for gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain.
Visit GAMSTOP →BeGambleAware
Safer gambling information and routes to support in Great Britain.
Visit BeGambleAware →Support systems differ by country. Search for the official gambling regulator, health service or recognised support organisation in your jurisdiction.