Whilst the majority of people do gamble safely and responsibly, for some, gaming can become a problem. When gaming, always remember the following:

• Gaming should be entertaining and fun and not seen as a way of making money
• Only gamble what you can afford to lose
• Avoid chasing losses
• Keep track of the time and amount you spend gambling

If you are concerned about your gaming, then honestly answering the questions below may give you an idea of whether your gaming is problematic:

• Do you stay away from work, college or school to gamble?
• Do you gamble to escape from a boring or unhappy life?
• When gambling and you run out of money, do you feel lost and in despair and need to gamble again as soon as possible?
• Do you gamble until your last penny is gone, even the fare home or the cost of a cup of tea?
• Have you ever lied to cover up the amount of money or time you have spent gaming?
• Have others ever criticised your gambling?
• Have you lost interest in your family, friends or hobbies?
• Do arguments, frustrations or disappointments make you want to gamble?
• Do you feel depressed or even suicidal because of your gambling?

The more you answer 'yes' to these questions, the more likely you are to develop a gaming problem.

If you are concerned about your gaming, you can take the Federal Centre for Health Education (BZgA)’s gambling self-test: www.check-dein-spiel.de

You can also complete the Cambridge Health Alliance's BBGS e-screener

This page was last reviewed and updated: June 2024