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How to stop chasing betting losses

If the next bet is mainly an attempt to recover a loss, stop and use account limits or a break.

By Chinwe Okafor · Updated 3 October 2026

How to stop chasing betting losses

Recognise the next-bet problem

Chasing means betting again, or staking more, mainly to recover a previous loss. The new stake can make the loss larger.

An unrelated match does not become a better selection because your earlier slip lost.

Stop the payment loop

Do not make another deposit to keep the session going. Close the betting app and put time between the loss and any further decision.

Keep essential spending separate. Do not borrow, sell something necessary or use another person's funds to place a recovery bet.

Put a control in place

Use a deposit limit, time-out or self-exclusion rather than relying only on a promise to stop after the next bet.

If you have already set a limit, do not open another account to get around it.

Get help without another bet

Talk to someone you trust and use problem gambling help. You do not have to win the money back before asking for support.

Our self-exclusion guide explains how to request a break from an account.

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