Gambling disorder: signs and where to get help
Gambling disorder is a pattern of gambling you cannot control, which carries on despite harm to your money, work or relationships. Signs include gambling more than planned, chasing losses and hiding it. It is a treatable condition, and a doctor can help.
Last updated 2 November 2026
Warning signs
- gambling more, or for longer, than you planned
- chasing losses by gambling again to win back money
- thinking about gambling much of the time
- borrowing money or selling things to gamble
- hiding or lying about gambling
- feeling restless or irritable when you try to cut back
- problems at work, study or in relationships because of gambling
Online gambling
Betting apps and online games are available at all hours on a phone, which can make it easier for gambling to grow without others noticing.
Impact
Gambling disorder can bring debt, relationship breakdown, anxiety and depression. Some people have thoughts of suicide. If this is true for you, please get help now.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Getting help
- Talk to a doctor or psychiatrist. Treatment can include talking therapy and, where needed, treatment for anxiety or depression.
- Tell someone you trust, such as a family member or friend.
- Limit access to money and gambling apps, and ask someone to help you with finances.
How to start
- Call or message us. Reach us on +91 90352 54779 or WhatsApp. Tell us your language and a convenient time.
- Free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and prepares a report for your clinician, so you do not repeat yourself.
- Video session. You meet your allotted clinician online, from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
- Your plan. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps. You decide together.
Book your free pre-consultation call
Your privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Is gambling really an addiction?
The World Health Organization recognises gambling disorder as a condition, in which a person loses control over gambling despite harm.
Can gambling disorder be treated?
Yes. Therapy and support help many people regain control, and a clinician can check for anxiety or depression too.
How can I help a family member who gambles?
Speak calmly without blame, encourage them to see a doctor, and protect shared finances.
Related
- Gambling disorder
- Addiction
- Talking to family
- Forgetfulness or dementia? Signs to watch for
- Psychosis and schizophrenia: early signs and treatment
Sources
Mindly Health is not an emergency service. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.