Signs of a potentially harmful gambling pattern can manifest in various behaviors and symptoms that indicate a loss of control over gambling activities. Key indicators include an increasing preoccupation with gambling, where individuals consistently think about past bets or plan future gambling sessions, often leading to neglecting personal, professional, or social responsibilities. Frequent attempts to cut back or stop gambling without success, along with escalating bets or gambling larger amounts to experience the same thrill, are red flags. Additionally, individuals may chase losses by betting more in an effort to recover lost money, experience significant mood swings related to gambling outcomes, or engage in deceptive behaviors to conceal the extent of their gambling.