Identifying the gambling problem

Gambling is quite common in Finland. It is often perceived as a common everyday pleasure for the entire population. There may be many reasons for gambling. Many people manage to keep their gambling under control, but for some, it causes adverse effects. 

Anyone can experience problems with leisurely gambling which began as a harmless activity. Several factors that expose people to the problem have been identified. Some resort to gambling to escape a difficult life event, for instance when dealing with a divorce or unemployment. Mental health disorders, difficulties with concentration, genetic heritage or excessive alcohol consumption may also expose you to a gambling problem. 

Pay attention to your gambling if you think it takes too much time or money or if you notice other negative effects. Sometimes it also happens that someone close is worried about gambling before the person themself pays attention to the matter. If you feel you cannot keep gambling under control, please seek help. 

Gambling refers to gaming with monetary profits or losses. Such games include slot machines, online gambling, lottery tickets, lottery games, betting and casino games. In gambling, few win, and many lose.

The majority of Finns have engaged in gambling during the past year. In proportion to the population, gambling is popular in Finland. There are also a lot of problems associated with gambling. 

Risk gambling refers to heavy gambling. There is a risk of developing a problem if your own gambling limits are often exceeded or if gambling makes life difficult in one way or another. 

Problematic gambling is gambling where the player spends too much money or time on gambling. Problematic gambling causes adverse effects and negatively affects the player or their loved ones.

Gambling addiction refers to a situation in which a person is unable to control their gambling and therefore neglects their basic needs and obligations. There is a diagnosis for gambling addiction. 

Problem gambling usually refers to problematic gambling or gambling addiction. Problematic gambling is not necessarily visible. It may lie in the background for long periods of time. Gambling is problematic when the player spends too much money or time on gambling.

Problematic gambling is not only a problem for the player. An estimated 800,000 loved ones of players are affected by problematic gambling in Finland.

Often the most visible disadvantage resulting from gambling is the impact on finances. If the money is spent mainly on gambling, there is little left to meet basic needs. In addition, if gambling is financed by a loan, debts are easily accumulated.

Excessive gambling may cause problems in family relations and friendships. A lot of time will be spent on gambling, and there may be no more interest in leisure activities or meeting friends. Gambling and spending money may cause disputes in relationships. On the other hand, hiding gambling may also undermine trust and cause anxiety. Those close to the player also often suffer and need support.

Problems may also arise in terms of health or mental health. Problem gambling may involve restlessness, depression, anxiety, self-destruction and a distortion of one’s self-image. Gambling may also cause difficulties sleeping, difficulties concentrating or stress symptoms, such as headaches or abdominal pain.

If a lot of time is spent on gambling, and the rhythm of the day is disrupted, this also affects coping with everyday life. This may be manifested as a neglect of basic needs or obligations.

A gambling problem may also lead to an increase in substance abuse.

If you suspect that you are gambling too much, consider the following questions:

• Does the idea of reducing or stopping gambling cause anxiety or irritation?
• Are you trying to break even after a losing game by gambling again?
• Are there disputes with loved ones about gambling?
• Do you feel guilty or ashamed?
• Do you compromise on necessary purchases, other entertainment or hobbies because of gambling?
• Do work or study suffer because of gambling?
• Do you hide bills, or do you leave them unpaid?

Sometimes a gambling problem is identified when loved ones point out the time or money spent on gambling.

Identifying high-risk and harmful gambling on the Addictionlink websiteOpens in a new window.

In their stories, people who have experienced a gambling problem tell what kind of challenges they have encountered and what kind of things they have found strength in. The stories also describe the experiences of loved ones. You are not alone with your questions.

You can also write about your situation for yourself. For some, writing may be a therapeutic way of looking at their life and the reasons that led to the problem.

Read personal experiences or write yourself:

• Addictionlink user stories on gambling (in Finnish)Opens in a new window.
• Stories on the Pelirajaton websiteOpens in a new window.
• Experiences of gambling problems (in Finnish)Opens in a new window.
• Frequently asked questions on the Peluuri websiteOpens in a new window.
• Gambling section for the Addictionlink chat area (in Finnish)Opens in a new window.

You can discuss your gambling with a substance abuse or health care professional. 

Take the matter up at the health centre of your wellbeing services counties or in occupational health care. You can book a separate appointment or bring up the matter at another visit. There is an obligation of secrecy in health care, so you can discuss the matter without, for example, your employer being informed.

Expert advice and guidance on the right services can be obtained from mental health, substance abuse and addiction services in your wellbeing services county.

Contacting an expert to determine your situation does not yet mean that you have a problem. In any case, it is good that you reflect on your behaviour and lifestyle. You can also receive further help if you feel you need it.

On the Peluuri helplineOpens in a new window., you can talk to a professional specialising in gambling problems. You can call anonymously if you prefer.  

From the Pelirajaton service, you can request a peer call from a trained peer instructor (in Finnish).Opens in a new window. 

The Addictionlink counselling provides relaxed counselling online (in Finnish)Opens in a new window.. provides non-urgent help online. There, you receive advice from a professional or an expert by experience, i.e. a person who has suffered from problem gambling.

Counselling is always confidential, and discussions can often be conducted anonymously.