Andrew Shepard is a roulette expert with over 10 years of experience. His expertise covers the US, Australian, and other international markets. At Roulette77, he focuses on creating in-depth content on roulette strategy testing, simulators, and game mechanics.
One of the main values of Roulette77 is the prioritization of player safety. Our goal is to ensure that their gaming sessions primarily bring enjoyment and fun. Winnings are a pleasant addition to a good game, but by no means the ultimate goal. However, it often happens that the game turns from entertainment into an addiction, which negatively affects not only the lives of the players themselves but also their loved ones and friends. That is why it is important to understand that you are not alone in your problem and that there are people and organizations who can help you with this. The primary step is to acknowledge the problem and start working on it. That is why we have prepared our guide, in which we explain in detail what gambling addiction is, what its causes are, and how to fight it.
What is Gambling Addiction?
The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), defines this condition as an “addictive disorder”. This definition may not mean much on its own unless you are an expert, but it provides guidance on what gambling addiction is and how it should be treated. Anyone who cannot control their gambling instincts can be described as a problematic gambler. So, if you can't control the impulse to gamble (even though you know it will have negative consequences), you may be an addict too. However, such a sensitive and delicate topic becomes the subject of many myths, which differ from real facts. Let's look at them in more detail.
Myth
I don’t gamble every day, so I can’t be addicted.
Fact
This is a misconception. Gambling addiction is not about frequency. The issue lies in losing control over the impulse to gamble.
Myth
I have a stable financial situation, so addiction is not a risk for me.
Fact
Income level doesn’t matter. Even wealthy people can suffer from gambling addiction.
Myth
Gambling addiction only affects uneducated or weak-willed people.
Fact
This is not true. Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of education level or social status.
Myth
Gambling addiction is just the result of poor choices.
Fact
In fact, it is a recognized mental health disorder. It affects behaviour, judgment, and impulse control.
Myth
Gambling addiction is mostly a male problem.
Fact
Statistically, yes, but gambling addiction does not have gender preferences.
Gambling Addiction Statistics: Key Numbers
Approximately 1.2% of the world’s adult population shows symptoms of gambling disorder, according to data from the World Health Organization and independent studies.
Women usually start gambling later, but addiction may develop faster in them than in men. This phenomenon is known as the “telescoping effect”.
According to studies, over 50% of people with gambling addiction also suffer from co-occurring mental disorders, most commonly depression or anxiety.
Only 2 out of 10 people who experience problem gambling seek professional help, despite the availability of specialized services.
In many countries, the risks of gambling addiction are increasing among young people aged 18–34, especially with frequent use of online platforms.
Causes and Symptoms of Gambling Addiction
Causes
Symptoms
Genetic predisposition. A family history of mental disorders or addictions increases the risk.
Obsessive thoughts about gambling. Constant thinking about bets, strategies, or winnings.
Environmental influence. If close ones gamble or approve of gambling, it creates a risk tolerance.
Loss of control. Inability to stop, even when there are financial or emotional consequences.
Psychological state. Depression, anxiety, or stress increases susceptibility to gambling as a form of “escape”.
Tolerance. Gradual increase in bet size to achieve the same level of satisfaction.
Failures or low self-esteem. Gambling becomes a way to prove one’s “capability” to oneself or others.
Isolation. Avoiding friends, family, or work to make time for gambling.
Personality traits. Impulsivity, neuroticism, competitiveness, need for risk, and perfectionism.
Financial problems. Taking loans, borrowing money, or selling belongings for gambling.
Medication. Certain drugs (e.g., dopamine agonists) may trigger compulsive gambling.
Chasing losses. Returning after losing to try and “win back” the money.
Not sure if you're gambling responsibly?
Indeed, roulette and other gambling games can be exciting and bring enjoyment. But, along with the excitement, it is easy to miss the moment when the game starts to control your mood or your finances. This is normal; it happens to many people. The main thing is to stop in time and take care of yourself. Therefore, if you feel that the thrill is taking over, take a break and check if everything is fine. Remember, you are not alone, and there are support services where you will be heard and supported without judgment. Take our one-minute test to see if you might need extra support right now.
Playing Without Problems: What to Keep in Mind
Set limits on deposits, bets, and time through casino settings or apps like BetBlocker or Gamban.
Use timers, for example, the Forest app, to remind you to take breaks.
Play only when in a good mood, avoid stress and alcohol.
Take breaks every 30–60 minutes to rest and recharge your self-control.
Never play with borrowed money or on credit.
Track expenses and winnings using Spendee or Money Lover to see your real balance.
Is Someone You Love at Risk? What You Can Do
Gambling addiction rarely begins suddenly — it is a gradual process that often hides behind other life difficulties. These may include financial problems, mood swings, or social isolation. If you suspect that someone close to you may be on the path toward gambling addiction, we recommend that you pay attention to indirect but alarming signs. Here are some of them:
Sudden financial difficulties
A person who previously managed their finances well starts missing payments, taking loans, or asking for help. At the same time, they do not explain where the money is going, or they give vague, imprecise answers.
Changes in habits
You notice they spend hours on their phone or computer, especially at night. They often appear tired in the morning without explaining what they were doing late at night.
New emotional instability
The person has become more irritable or, conversely, more withdrawn. They react sharply to minor everyday issues. Their mood may shift for no reason from one state to another. They become especially irritated when the topic is money or free time.
Social withdrawal
Your loved one starts avoiding company, skipping regular gatherings, family events, or friendly conversations. They may claim to be busy, but do not explain what they are doing.
Vague explanations
When asked directly where their time and money are going, their answers become inconsistent. Or they simply avoid the topic, become nervous, or try to change the subject.
How to Help: 5 Tips for the First Conversation
Speak calmly and from your own perspective
Use “I-statements” to share your own feelings. For example: “I’m worried because I’ve noticed changes in your behaviour.”
Show care, not control
Avoid accusations or commands. Instead of “You must stop,” say: “I’m here if you want to talk or change something.”
Offer support without pressure
Gently mention professional help or hotlines, but don’t insist. The person needs to make the decision on their own.
Listen attentively and without judgment
Give space for a response, even if you hear denial. Your calm reaction matters more than arguments.
Don’t overwhelm or impose advice
Avoid moralizing, comparing with others, or giving examples of “how it should be.” The conversation should be a dialogue, not a monologue.
Where to Seek Help
If the conversation reveals that the problem is real, it’s important to know where to turn for professional support. Below are international options to help take the first step:
An international self-help community for people who want to overcome gambling addiction. Offers group meetings both online and offline, following the 12-step model.
A UK-based organization offering free counselling, chats, and self-help tools. Also supports the relatives of gamblers. Available online and accepts inquiries from abroad.
An international service that is part of the Gordon Moody Association. Provides anonymous online help, forums, and chats in over 10 languages. Works with both gamblers and their families.
An educational portal on responsible gambling. Includes self-control tips, tests, and contacts for professional assistance. Suitable for initial familiarization with the issue.
Learn More About Responsible Gambling
To gain a more detailed understanding of responsible gambling policies, our team has prepared several additional guides where you will learn about best practices, useful tools, and other things that can help you gamble more responsibly and enjoy the experience even more.
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