Gambling addiction: signs and help

Last updated: 2026-11-06

Betting apps are built to keep you playing. If it has become hard to stop, that is not a personal weakness. It is a recognised health problem, and help is available.

Signs to look out for

• You spend more money or time on betting than you planned.
• You keep betting to win back what you lost ("chasing losses").
• You borrow money, sell things or use family money to bet.
• You hide your betting from family or lie about it.
• You feel restless or irritable when you try to stop.
• Betting is affecting your studies, work, sleep or relationships.

If several of these sound familiar, it is a good time to take action.

Practical steps you can take today

1. Uninstall betting apps and delete saved links and Telegram or WhatsApp groups.
2. Remove saved wallet details and ask your bank or wallet about spending limits.
3. Tell one person you trust. Saying it out loud makes it easier to stop.
4. Let a family member manage your money for a while if needed.
5. Fill your usual betting time with something else: sport, a walk, time with friends.
6. Do not try to win back losses. That money is gone, and chasing it makes the loss bigger.

Getting professional help

• A doctor at a government or private hospital can refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist.
• Many hospitals in Pakistan have psychiatry departments that treat behavioural addictions.
• Online support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous hold meetings where people share their experience.

If you ever feel hopeless or think about harming yourself, contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital straight away.

For families

• Talk calmly and without shame. Anger often makes people hide the problem more.
• Do not pay off debts without a plan, as this can keep the cycle going.
• Protect household money and documents such as CNIC copies.
• Encourage professional help and go with them if you can.

Also read how to report online fraud if money was lost to a scam.