Knowing the warning signs can help you decide what action to take
If gambling is a problem for someone you know, you might notice changes in the person's mood, schedule or finances. Problem gamblers may be moody, have unexplained periods of absence from home or work, or they may always seem to be running out of money.
Financial signs
Some common financial warning signs that someone may have a problem with gambling include:
- Money missing from bank accounts, wallet/purse or money jar
- Household items and valuables missing
- Regularly short of money even though they earn a wage
- Borrowing money on a regular basis
- Having many loans at the one time
- Being secretive about financial records or payslips
- Unpaid bills/disconnection notices
- Lack of food in the house
Mood and behaviour signs
When someone develops a gambling problem, there are often noticeable changes to their mood and behaviour, including:
- Becoming withdrawn from others/family events
- Performance at work is being affected
- Seeming worried, agitated or upset for no apparent reason
- Reporting feeling hopeless, depressed, frustrated or suicidal
- Changes in personality - sleeping, eating, or sexual relationship patterns
- Controlling and/or manipulative behaviour
- Using threats, lies or charm to manipulate others
Changes in a person's mood and behavior can impact significantly on work, study and personal relationships.
Time related signs
Some common time-related signs that could indicate someone has a problem with gambling include:
- Spending more and more time gambling
- Being secretive about unexplained absences
- Often being late for commitments
- Over-using sick days and days off
- Taking an unusual amount of time for simple tasks (e.g. taking two hours to get the paper from corner store).