Gambling
Many people gamble without it becoming a problem. But if you find it difficult to control how much time or money you spend on gambling, you may be at risk of developing a gambling addiction. It is possible to regain control, and there is effective help available.
Why take signs of gambling problems seriously?
It’s important to take any sign of gambling addiction seriously, as it can have a significant negative impact on your studies or work, relationships, finances, and mental health.
Gambling problems often affect several areas of life. For some, gambling becomes a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or low mood. Feelings of shame are common, and many try to hide their gambling, which can lead to isolation and worsening problems. Financial consequences can be severe, and debts may take years to repay. Because of this, excessive gambling also increases the risk of depression and anxiety.
How gambling addiction works
Gambling activates the same reward system in the brain as alcohol or drug use. The difference is that gambling does not involve a physical substance entering the body (though alcohol can increase gambling). Online casinos, online poker, e‑sports betting, and slot machines are examples of gambling forms that can lead to addiction when used regularly.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about gambling or how to get money to gamble? Do you try to win back the money you’ve lost? Do you feel restless or irritable when trying to reduce or stop gambling? These may be signs of gambling addiction.
What can you do yourself?
- Exclude yourself from gambling
Via spelpaus.se it’s possible to exclude yourself from gambling on games licensed in Sweden and that require registration. - Install software that blocks gambling sites
There are various programmes that block gambling sites. More information is available at spelpaus.se. - Limit your access to money
Let a relative manage your finances, limit your opportunity of making internet purchases, deposit some of your money into hard-to-access accounts. - Talk to someone
Support from family, friends, or someone you trust can be very helpful when trying to change gambling habits.
Seeking help for gambling problems
If it feels difficult to stop or cut down on your own, support is available. Some of the help listed below is only available if you are registered in the Swedish population register and have a personal identity number.
- The municipal social services offer treatment and counseling.
- In some regions, help is available through addiction centers.
- Student health services can offer support and guidance on where to get help.
- If you are under 23 years old (or 25 in some regions), you can contact a Youth guidance centre.
- At 1177.se, spelinspektionen.se and stödlinjen.se you can find more information and support.
Are you worried about a friend?
It may feel difficult and uncomfortable to bring up the subject, but it can be important to say something if you want to try to help someone create change. Tell them that you feel worried and describe what you have noticed in their behavior that concerns you. Try to do this without placing blame.
Also remember that it is not your responsibility to make the person stop or seek help - the decision must come from the person themselves. At spelinspektionen.se and stödlinjen.se you can find more information if you are worried about someone you care about.
Last updated: 2026-03-16