Gambling harm is being missed warns new report - the debt warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

A new report has warned that gambling harm is slipping through the cracks, with millions of people potentially experiencing problems but not getting support early enough.

The report, Slipping Through the Cracks, from the Social Market Foundation, found that around 1.4 million adults in Britain score at the level of “problem gambling” on the Problem Gambling Severity Index. It also warned that many people are only identified when their situation has already reached crisis point.

For many people, the first sign that gambling is becoming harmful is not the amount they gamble - it is the impact it starts having on everyday life.

Missed bills. Borrowing money to cover losses. Keeping secrets from loved ones. Feeling unable to stop.

At Money Wellness, we know that gambling and debt can quickly become linked. A person may start gambling to try to make money stretch further, win back losses or escape financial stress, but often it can leave them facing even bigger money worries.

How gambling can lead to debt

Gambling can affect anyone, but it can become particularly dangerous when someone starts using credit or borrowing to continue.

Some common patterns include:

• using credit cards, overdrafts or loans to fund gambling
• borrowing money from friends or family but not telling them why
• missing household bills because money has been spent on gambling
• chasing losses by gambling more after a losing streak
• feeling pressure to win money back to solve financial problems

The cycle can be difficult to break because gambling often creates the belief that the next win could fix everything.

But when essential spending is being replaced by gambling, debt can quickly build up.

7 warning signs that gambling may be becoming a problem

1. You gamble with money meant for essentials

If gambling means you are struggling to pay for food, rent, energy bills or other household costs, it is a sign that your finances may be under pressure.

2. You chase losses

Thinking “I just need one more win to get back what I lost” is one of the biggest warning signs.

Losses often lead people to gamble more, which can increase financial harm.

3. You hide gambling from people close to you

Keeping gambling apps hidden, lying about how much you have spent or feeling embarrassed discussing it can be a sign that gambling is no longer feeling under control.

4. You borrow money to gamble

Using credit cards, loans, overdrafts or buy now pay later to continue gambling can make the problem much harder to recover from.

5. Gambling is affecting your mood

Feeling anxious, stressed, guilty or low because of gambling is a sign it may be affecting more than just your bank balance.

6. You have tried to stop but struggled

Many people experiencing gambling harm know they want to cut down but find it difficult to stop without support.

7. Your debts are growing because of gambling

If gambling has left you with debts you cannot afford to repay, getting advice early can prevent the situation becoming overwhelming.

What to do if gambling is affecting your finances

The first step is recognising there is a problem - and that can be the hardest part.

If gambling has contributed to debt, try not to ignore bills or wait until creditors are chasing payments. Speak to us, we can help you understand your options and make a plan.

Practical steps that can help include:

Take a break from gambling
Consider using tools such as gambling blocks like GamStop or BetBlocker or self-exclusion services to create space while you get support.

Talk to someone you trust
Keeping money worries hidden can make them feel bigger. Sharing what is happening can be a turning point. You can speak to someone you trust or, if you’d find it easier, organisations like Samaritans or The National Gambling Helpline run by GamCare on 0808 8020 133.

Get help with your debts
Our debt advisers can look at your full financial situation, including income, bills and debts, and help you understand what support may be available.

Gambling harm is not just about money

While debt is one of the most visible consequences of gambling harm, it can also affect relationships, mental wellbeing, housing and everyday life.

The important thing to remember is that struggling with gambling does not mean someone has failed. The earlier people seek support, the more options they usually have.