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Addiction help

Gaming addiction

Gambling disorder is the urge to keep playing despite the harm it does. It can be treated, and help is free and confidential. If you recognise the signs below in yourself or someone close, act now rather than after the next loss.

Free, confidential help Blocking tools for your phone Recovery is common
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Table of Content 8
  1. If you need help now
  2. Why online play hooks people
  3. Signs of a problem
  4. Keeping play in check
  5. How to stop
  6. Blocking and exclusion tools
  7. Where to get help
  8. Addiction: questions

If you need help now

  1. Talk

    Tell someone you trust, or contact Gambling Therapy online.

  2. Block

    Self-exclude at every casino you use and install a blocker.

  3. Money

    Hand day-to-day control of your money to someone you trust for a while.

  4. Crisis

    If you feel unsafe, call the National Center for Mental Health on 1553.

So what

Why online play hooks people

  • Speed

    Rounds settle in seconds, so losses mount quickly and the urge to win them back follows.

  • Always available

    A phone casino never closes; there is no walk home to think.

  • Bonuses

    Offers and wagering keep you playing longer than planned.

  • Illusion of control

    Systems and patterns feel like skill; in games of chance they are not.

Full text

Signs of a problem

In yourself

  • Thinking about playing most of the time.
  • Needing bigger bets for the same thrill.
  • Chasing losses.
  • Using savings or bill money to play.
  • Restlessness or irritability when you try to stop.
  • Hiding how much you play.

What others notice

  • Money problems, loans and unexplained spending.
  • Mood swings.
  • Missed work or family events.
  • Withdrawing from friends.

Keeping play in check

  • Time, money and frequency limits set before you start.
  • Learn the odds: the house edge means long sessions lose.
  • Turn on reality checks and deposit limits.
  • Keep a record of what you spend.

How to stop

  1. Admit the problem to yourself and to one person you trust.
  2. Self-exclude at every casino and install a blocker.
  3. Remove saved cards and wallets from casino accounts.
  4. Fill the time with something else that you enjoy.
  5. Join a support group or speak to a counsellor.
  6. Expect urges and plan what you will do when they come.

Recovery is common, and setbacks are part of it. More tools are on our responsible gaming page.

Blocking and exclusion tools

ToolWhat it does
Casino self-exclusionCloses your account at that casino for a set period
GambanBlocks betting sites and apps on your devices (paid)
BetBlockerFree blocker for sites and apps
PAGCOR exclusionCovers PAGCOR-licensed operators only

Free support

Where to get help

Addiction: questions

What is gaming addiction?

A disorder where a person cannot stop playing despite the harm it causes.

How can I tell if I have a problem?

Chasing losses, needing bigger bets, hiding play, using money meant for other things, and feeling restless when you stop are the main signs.

Can I stop on my own?

Some people do, with firm limits and support from family. Support groups and counselling improve the odds.

Where can I find support in the Philippines?

Gambling Therapy online, Gamblers Anonymous meetings (including online), and the National Center for Mental Health crisis line on 1553.

How do I help a family member?

Talk without blame, protect shared money, and contact Gam-Anon for support for yourself.

More information