Written by 
Reviewed by Recognizing the Warning Signs
Problem gambling can develop gradually, which is why noticing the early signs matters. We encourage you to take stock if you see any of the following patterns in your own behavior or in someone you care about.
- Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
- Chasing losses by betting more to win back what you lost.
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to keep gambling.
- Lying to family or friends about how much you gamble.
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling.
- Gambling interfering with work, sleep, or relationships.
Experiencing even one of these signs is a reason to pause and reassess. Help is available and effective, and reaching out early makes a real difference.
Setting Deposit and Time Limits
The most practical safeguard is to set limits before you play, while your judgment is clear. Most reputable operators provide tools to help you stay in control.
Deposit limits cap how much you can add to your account over a day, week, or month. Loss limits stop play once you reach a set loss threshold. Session time limits and reality check reminders help you keep track of how long you have been playing. We recommend deciding on a budget you can afford to lose and treating it as the cost of entertainment, never as money you expect to recover.
Self-Exclusion Options
If limits are not enough, self-exclusion lets you block your own access to gambling for a set period or permanently. Many operators offer account-level self-exclusion, and players can also use software such as blocking tools that prevent access to gambling sites across their devices.
California also participates in self-exclusion programs for state-regulated venues, and the California Council on Problem Gambling can point you to current options. Self-exclusion is a sign of strength, not failure, and it gives you space to regain control.
Helplines and Support Organizations
Free, confidential help is available around the clock. You do not need to be in crisis to reach out.
- National Council on Problem Gambling helpline: call or text 1-800-522-4700, available 24/7.
- California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG): offers California-specific support, treatment referrals, and resources.
- BeGambleAware.org: provides free information, self-assessment tools, and guidance.
- Gamblers Anonymous: peer support meetings available in person and online.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact emergency services right away.
Supporting Someone Else
If you are worried about a friend or family member, approach the conversation with care rather than judgment. Share what you have noticed, listen without blame, and point them toward the helplines above. Support groups also exist for family members affected by someone else's gambling. Our priority is always player wellbeing, and we encourage everyone to use these tools whether or not they currently feel at risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Council on Problem Gambling helpline number?
You can call or text the NCPG helpline at 1-800-522-4700 at any time. It is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
How do deposit and time limits work?
Deposit limits cap how much you can add to your account over a chosen period, while time limits and reality checks track how long you play. Setting them before you start helps keep gambling within a budget you can afford.
What is self-exclusion?
Self-exclusion lets you block your own access to gambling for a set time or permanently. You can use operator account tools, device-level blocking software, or state-regulated self-exclusion programs.
Where can California players find local support?
The California Council on Problem Gambling offers state-specific resources and treatment referrals. The NCPG helpline at 1-800-522-4700 and BeGambleAware.org provide additional free support.
How can I help someone who may have a gambling problem?
Approach them without judgment, share specific concerns you have noticed, and listen. Encourage them to contact a helpline such as 1-800-522-4700, and seek out family support groups for your own wellbeing.