How can you recognize problematic gambling behavior in yourself and others?

As an outsider, it can be difficult to identify problematic gambling behavior in someone close to you. A gambling addict will often go to great lengths to hide it, driven by feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of reactions. Because it's challenging to recognize problematic gambling behavior, we list some characteristics below.

• Mood swings: the person experiences a lot of emotional instability, resulting in mood swings or irritability. Often, the person's mood depends on winning or losing. In addition to winning or losing, the mood can sometimes change when an addict doesn't have access to playing for an extended period of time.
• Obsession with money: The person is deeply preoccupied with financial matters. They attempt to acquire money through various means, such as borrowing money, selling as many items as possible, or even resorting to criminal activities.
  
• Absence: For individuals addicted to gambling, this addiction consumes a significant amount of time. Prolonged absences, staying up late/early rising can therefore be signs indicating a gambling addiction.
  
• Secrecy and lying: The addicted individual becomes secretive about many matters, attempting to conceal activities during absences, hiding bills, etc. They lie about their gambling behavior and the amounts they play with.
  
• Financial issues: Excessive gambling leads the individual to develop financial problems.
  
• School/work problems: Due to excessive involvement in gambling, school/work responsibilities are sometimes neglected.
  
• False promises: A person with a gambling addiction may promise loved ones to quit, but in some cases, they continue regardless.
  

Where can I turn to for problematic gambling behavior?

In the first instance, if you have gambling problems, you can always turn to your general practitioner, who can then refer you to the relevant assistance organization. Additionally, there is a list available with support organizations in each province. You can find these organizations on the website of the Gaming Commission: https://www.gamingcommission.be/en/protection-of-players/help-in-your-region.

What can I do when I suspect problematic gaming behavior in someone around me?

If you suspect that someone around you has a gambling problem, it's important to approach the situation cautiously and with care. Here are some steps you can take to help someone:

• Educate yourself: Learn more about the signs and symptoms of gambling addiction so that you can better understand what the person is going through. This will also help you approach the situation empathetically.
• Express your concerns: Start the conversation by expressing your genuine concern for their well-being. Use "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory, such as "I've noticed that you've been spending a lot of time with gambling lately, and I'm worried about you."
  
• Be non-judgmental but supportive: Avoid blaming them for their behavior. Instead, let them know that you are there to support them through the challenges they are facing.
  
• Listen actively: Give your friend the opportunity to share their feelings and experiences. Active listening shows that you care and enables them to be open about their issues.
  
• Other resources: Share information about gambling addiction, helplines, support groups, or treatment options available in your area. Encourage them to seek professional help. Look up this information in advance.
  
• Avoid enabling: Do not lend money and do not support their gambling behavior. This could inadvertently facilitate their addiction and worsen the situation.
  
• Offer to accompany them to seek help: If your friend is open to seeking professional help, offer to accompany them to provide support throughout the entire process.
  

Remember that supporting someone with a gambling problem can be challenging, and it's essential to take care of yourself as well. Reach out to support groups or seek advice from a professional counselor if you need guidance on how to handle the situation.

Tips to keep your gaming behavior under control.

• Make it discussable: Discuss gambling and addiction openly with your loved ones. Often, there's a sense of shame or fear associated with talking about it. Initiate the conversation and make it discussable before it might escalate.
• Set boundaries: Try to manage your gaming behavior by setting boundaries. Establish limits for yourself or with your loved ones on the maximum amount of time and money to spend on gambling.
  
• Don't play for financial reasons: It's important to realize that there's a chance you won't win with gambling. So, don't play solely for financial reasons or to make up for losses. Ensure that gambling remains a form of entertainment.
  
• Choose licensed operators: Only play with licensed Belgian operators. This way, you're better protected.
  
• Use tools to manage your gaming behavior: For instance, you can lower your weekly deposit limit or request a temporary self-exclusion