Gambling activities serve to bring social and economic benefits to Hong Kong. Most people gamble in a controlled way as a form of leisure or entertainment. However, a small but important proportion gamble to excess - both through legal and illegal channels - and can be considered problem gamblers, causing damage both to themselves and to society.

Problem gambling varies in severity, but frequently leads to family relationship problems; financial difficulties; job problems and a range of emotional disorders.

Warning signs

These signs can indicate that you have or may be developing a problem with gambling:

* Do you think about gambling everyday?
* Do you ever hide your gambling from people close to you?
* Do you ever feel guilty after gambling?
* Do you ever borrow money to gamble?
* Do you let bills go unpaid to get money for gambling?
* Do you chase your losses?
* Do you frequently gamble until the last dollar has gone?
* Do you frequently try to stop or cut down but find you can't?
* Do you find gambling affects your work or family life?
* Do you argue with others about the amount you gamble?
* Do you often gamble for longer than planned?
* Do you often gamble more than you can afford?

Guidelines for responsible gambling

Responsible gamblers keep gambling as entertainment by following these guidelines:

* Set and stick to a budget
* Only gamble what you can afford to lose
* Don't borrow to gamble
* Balance gambling with other leisure activities
* Don't chase losses

Where you can find help

If you think you have a problem with gambling, or know someone close to you who might have a problem, contact: