Use a self-test to understand your gambling behaviour
Use a self-test to understand your gambling behaviour
For many New Zealanders, gambling can be a fun and social activity – a way to enjoy a bit of excitement, test your luck, and maybe win some extra money. But for some, gambling can slowly take up more time, money, and attention than intended. A self-test is a simple and anonymous way to reflect on your gambling habits and see whether they might be moving in a risky direction.
Why take a self-test?
A self-test isn’t about getting a diagnosis – it’s about awareness. It can be easy to overlook changes in your gambling behaviour, especially if you’re chasing losses, gambling to escape stress, or finding it hard to stop once you start. A self-test helps you ask yourself questions you might not have considered:
- Do you gamble to forget problems or lift your mood?
- Have you spent more time or money on gambling than you planned?
- Have you ever hidden how much you gamble from others?
Answering honestly can give you a clearer picture of where you stand – and whether it might be time to make some changes.
How a self-test works
Most self-tests take just a few minutes and can be done online, completely anonymously. They usually include 8–10 questions about your gambling habits, thoughts, and feelings. When you finish, you’ll receive feedback showing whether your behaviour falls into a low, moderate, or high-risk category:
- Low risk: You gamble for fun and stay in control.
- Moderate risk: You show some signs of risky behaviour – it might be time to pause and reflect.
- High risk: You may be experiencing gambling problems and could benefit from professional support.
The result isn’t a label or a judgment – it’s a starting point for understanding yourself better.
What to do with your results
If your test suggests that gambling is becoming a problem, there are practical steps you can take:
- Set limits on how much time and money you spend gambling. Many online gambling sites let you set deposit or time limits.
- Talk to someone you trust – a friend, family member, or counsellor.
- Reach out for free help. In New Zealand, you can contact Gambling Helpline Aotearoa (0800 654 655 or text 8006) for free, confidential support 24/7. You can also visit choice.notouch.org.nz or gamblinghelpline.co.nz for online tools and advice.
Even if your results show low risk, taking the test can still be a good reminder to keep your gambling healthy and balanced.
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Gambling should be entertainment – not a burden
Gambling is meant to be enjoyable, not stressful. If it starts causing worry, financial strain, or tension in your relationships, it may be time to take a step back. A self-test can help you notice early signs of harm before things get out of hand.
Taking the test is a sign of responsibility, not weakness. It shows that you care about your wellbeing and want to stay in control. Whatever your result, being honest with yourself is the first step toward keeping gambling a safe and positive part of your life.
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