Gambling and gaming

Gambling might seem like harmless fun - a quick thrill or an easy escape from the stresses of university life - but it's important to understand what the potential consequences are and how to stay in control.

Game features such as tradeable items, mystery rewards and virtual currencies are all designed to keep players engaged and invested, and these features can sometimes trigger the same responses in the brain as gambling.

Young people are particularly vulnerable, especially with the rise of online gambling, gaming and sports betting. Research shows that young men are at higher risk, but anyone can be affected.

This advice will help you to stay informed, make good choices, and access support if you need it.

Signs of a gambling or gaming problem

You might have a gambling or gaming problem if you're:

• trying to win back lost money (chasing losses)
• lying about your gambling habits
• struggling to control your gaming time
• gambling to escape stress or negative emotions
• withdrawing from other activities and relationships
• borrowing or stealing money to gamble.

How it might affect you

Gambling can have serious and lasting consequences that affect you and the people around you.

Poor mental health

Long-term gambling is linked to anxiety, depression and increased stress levels. These effects can persist even after gambling stops.

Addiction

Gambling can stimulate the brain's reward system much like drugs or alcohol, leading to addiction.

Financial problems

Persistent gambling can lead to debt, bankruptcy, and have a long-lasting impact on your credit score and financial record.

Relationship breakdowns

Gambling can damage friendships and family relationships due to behaviours such as secrecy, borrowing money or emotional withdrawal.

Academic performance

All of these things can have an impact on your studies.

Tips to manage your gambling

Here are some practical steps you can take if you’re worried about your gambling or gaming habits.

Set limits

Set yourself a limit each week on how much money and time you’ll spend.

Control your spending

Track your expenses and avoid using student loans or savings to gamble. You can ask your bank to block gambling transactions on your debit card.

Plan your time

Fill your time with hobbies, sports or social activities to avoid boredom, which is a common trigger for gambling.

Support and advice

There are many sources of support available if you feel you're being negatively impacted by gambling.

• The Student Money Service can offer advice on managing your money and creating a budget.
• You can access free support and/or speak to trained counsellors at any time via the Wisdom app.
• The NHS provides information on treatment and support groups.
• GamCare have advisers available on the phone, on WhatsApp, or on live chat 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• GambleAware offer free, confidential help to anyone who's worried about gambling.
• StepChange, Talking Money, and Citizens Advice all provide free advice on financial worries and dealing with debt.