Gambling addiction: signs and help
Gambling addiction (ludomania) is a condition in which a person loses control over gambling despite negative consequences for their finances, work and relationships. The WHO recognises it as a behavioural disorder, and it can be treated.
Main signs
- constant thoughts about gambling and planning the next session
- a need to raise stakes to feel the thrill
- attempts to win back losses
- hiding spending and time spent gambling from loved ones
- borrowing, selling belongings or running up debts to gamble
- irritability and anxiety when trying to cut back
A short self-assessment test
Answer the questions below honestly. If you answered "yes" to at least two of them, it is worth reconsidering your attitude to gambling and seeking advice.
- Have you gambled longer or with more money than you planned?
- Have you tried to win back losses the next day?
- Have you borrowed money to gamble?
- Have people close to you said you gamble too much?
- Have you felt guilty about gambling?
Where to get help
| Organisation | Type of help |
|---|---|
| National Mental Health Hotline — 0 800 505 201 | free consultation in Ukraine |
| Gamblers Anonymous | peer support groups based on the 12-step programme |
| GamCare | online counselling and support chat |
| Gambling Therapy | multilingual online help for players and families |
How to help someone close to you
Speak calmly and without blame, and offer specific help — finding a specialist or a support group together. Do not pay off someone else's gambling debts: it removes responsibility and feeds the problem.
Practical steps help too: self-exclusion via the PlayCity register, deposit limits and blocking gambling content on devices. Learn more about control tools on the Responsible gaming page.