• Having less time or money to spend on recreation and family
  • Reduced savings
  • Increased consumption of alcohol
  • Feelings of guilt or regret
  • Lying to others to cover up the amount of time you spend on your mobile phone or internet, or how you spend your money

  • Relationship difficulties or conflict
  • Children showing signs of distress and experiencing difficulties at school
  • Reduced study or work performance, days off sick or absent
  • Financial difficulties/debts
  • Having to do without basics like food, utilities and clothing
  • Changes in sleeping, eating, or sexual relationship patterns
  • Feelings of anger
  • Feelings of shame and hopelessness
  • Feelings of loneliness and isolation

If these signs have gone unnoticed, they can escalate or lead to more severe signs of harm.

  • Bankruptcy and homelessness
  • Relationship breakdown
  • Severe anxiety and depression, possibly leading to self-harm and suicide
  • Dropping out of studies or losing job
  • Criminal and anti-social behaviour such as stealing from family and friends or committing fraud