Gambling Addiction Support

Gambling Addiction Support

 

If you’re seeking information about problem gambling for yourself or a loved one, know that you’re not alone. We’re here to help you understand the challenges it brings and to provide resources for support.

Compulsive gambling often starts as an exciting activity, such as betting on sports or playing casino games, where you might feel a rush of pleasure. Over time, however, the excitement can fade, leading you to gamble more in search of that same thrill. This cycle can be much like other addictions, where the need for an increasing dose can feel overwhelming.

It’s important to recognise that gambling problems can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. What may start as a fun pastime can shift into an unhealthy obsession, often leading to difficult consequences for you and your loved ones. Relationships can strain, finances can become precarious, and it’s not uncommon to find yourself in situations you never imagined, such as accumulating debt or engaging in dishonest behaviours to continue gambling.

You might feel like you’re struggling to maintain control, but it’s crucial to know that having a gambling problem doesn’t mean you’re completely out of control. Signs of problem gambling can include a constant preoccupation with gambling, spending more time and money on it than you intend, and continuing to gamble despite negative outcomes in your life.

The impact of gambling isn’t solely defined by how much money you win or lose. If gambling is affecting your relationships, work, or overall well-being, it’s definitely a concern.

Even though it may seem daunting, there are many paths to overcome gambling challenges, repair your relationships, and take back control of your life. Remember, reaching out and seeking help is a strong and positive step forward. You deserve support, understanding, and a chance to find balance again.

Who is at risk for problem gambling?

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing a gambling addiction, including genetics, environment, medical history, and age. Some individuals are more susceptible to developing this addiction than others. For example, young men aged 18 to 29 are more likely to engage in compulsive gambling habits. Additionally, children and teenagers are at a higher risk than adults for developing gambling problems. Those who begin gambling at a young age are also more likely to develop a gambling addiction later in life.

Life circumstances, such as financial struggles and living alone, can further contribute to this risk. Compulsive gambling is also more common among individuals whose parents have faced addiction issues.

A gambling addiction or problem is often associated with other behavioural or mood disorders. Mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety frequently accompany gambling addiction. Many individuals with gambling problems also struggle with substance abuse issues or personality disorders, including antisocial, borderline, and narcissistic personality disorders. Beyond personality disorders, specific personality traits—particularly impulsivity—can increase the risk of pathological gambling. If you have an addictive or impulsive personality, you are at a greater risk of developing an addiction. To effectively address gambling problems, it is essential to tackle these underlying causes as well.

 

Gambling addiction is often called a "hidden illness" because it does not show the obvious physical signs or symptoms typically associated with drug or alcohol addiction. It is crucial to understand that those struggling with this problem may find it hard to acknowledge their situation and might even downplay it, even to themselves. This denial can make it even more difficult to seek help and support.

Gambling can harm many areas of your life. The following are types of harm that are common as a result of problem gambling:

• Relationships - arguments with friends and loved ones, relationship breakdown or domestic violence.
• Mental and physical health - this may include substance use, poor wellbeing, sleep problems, anxiety, depression or suicide.
• Finances – serious debt, bankruptcy or housing problems including homelessness.
• Cultural - the perception of gambling is influenced by cultural norms and often the perceived stigma attached to issues with gambling can lead to feelings of shame and isolation.
• Failures in employment and education - loss of concentration in work, showing up late, periods of absence or poor performance, which could lead to demotion, resignation, discipline, dismissal or withdrawal from education.
• Criminal activity due to financial difficulties, such as stealing from friends or family, or fraud

Gambling not only harms the gambler; it can also negatively affect those around them, particularly family members, including children. The consequences of gambling can impede children's development and increase stress for family members. Parents who struggle with gambling may inadvertently create a more stressful environment for their families and children.

Gambling can lead to negative consequences, even if they don't seem directly related at first. Recognising the signs of gambling-related harm is an important step in identifying issues and knowing when to seek help for yourself or others.

Common symptoms are:

• Not sleeping, feeling constantly restless
• Feeling anxious a lot of the time
• Not being able to take pleasure in ordinary things
• Feeling stressed, irritable or angry about other people’s opinions
• Feeling compelled to gamble more and larger amounts, even when you can't afford it, can lead to serious consequences. You might spend your last penny and then use money meant for bills or your children. This pressure may drive you to borrow, sell, or even steal for gambling funds.
• Going back to try to win your money back (“chasing losses”). 
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down. 
• Feeling like you can’t control yourself. 
• Not being able to stop gambling or thinking about gambling, despite wanting to or facing negative consequences.
• Feeling disconnected from people and situations, unable to pay attention to people you care about
• Feeling generally depressed
• Feeling suicidal or thinking about being absent from the world
• Constantly needing to check devices
• Worrying about money and/or debt
• Feeling the need to be secretive about your gambling. You might gamble in secret or lie about how much you gamble, feeling others won’t understand or that you will surprise them with a big win.

 

The negative effects of gambling can be temporary, but they may lead to long-lasting consequences that exacerbate existing inequalities. Recognising the warning signs can help you determine when it’s time to seek help for yourself or someone else.

If you need support, there are resources and treatment options available. Whether you're looking to cut back or quit entirely, we are here to help you.

 

Monitor how often you are gambling

To manage your gambling effectively, it's important to monitor your activity. If you gamble online, your account should provide access to:

- When you gambled

- How much you spent

- Your login frequency

- Time spent on the site

This information can help you control your gambling and make informed decisions, allowing you to set personal limits.

 

Gambling spend calculator

You can also take a look at Gamble Aware’s spend calculator. It only takes a few minutes and will give you a better understanding of the time and money you spend gambling, alongside recommendations to reduce your risk.

Gambling Spend Calculator - Start page

 

If you notice that your gambling activity is increasing and frequently taking you over your limits, take a moment to reflect on the reasons behind your gambling. People gamble for various reasons, and these motivations can change over time. It might be beneficial to consider whether you view gambling as a social activity or if it has become more of a habit for you.

Gambling should not be used to improve personal finances. If your main motivation to gamble is to escape debt or if you are using gambling in order to make money quickly, then you will likely find the following services helpful.

• MoneyHelper - An independent service set up by government to help people manage their money.
• Debt Advice Foundation - A UK debt advice charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt. 
• National Debt Line - National helpline number: 08088 084000 Provides free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems. 
• StepChange Debt Charity - Telephone: 0800 138 1111 A debt advice organisation offering free, confidential and impartial debt help to anyone who needs it. Available online 24 hours a day. 

 

Even if your gambling habits are not fully addictive, you may just need some assistance in reducing how much you gamble and maintaining control. If this applies to you, consider the following helpful tips.

• Put a limit on your spending - If you notice an increase in your gambling spending, set limits to control it. Many gambling sites allow you to cap your account to avoid exceeding a certain amount. You can also limit your spending on gaming machines in betting shops. Avoid taking credit cards with you, as it's easy to overspend without realising it.
• Give yourself timeouts from gambling - Taking timeouts from gambling helps you relax, track spending, and avoid feeling overwhelmed. It also prevents dependency. You can block yourself from gambling for up to six weeks during a timeout.
• Deal with debts and pay your bills - Address your debts instead of ignoring them. Always pay important bills, like your mortgage, on payday before gambling. Setting up direct debits can help manage this.
• Stay away from bad influences - Spend more time with family and friends who do not gamble.
• Talk to someone if you become worried – If you are worried that your gambling is getting out of control, it is important to seek support. Don’t keep your concerns about gambling to yourself – talk to someone.
• Do not view gambling as a way to make money – Gambling is not a reliable way to earn money and you are far too likely to lose money instead.
• Distract yourself – If you realise that you've reached your limits but still feel the urge to gamble, try finding a distraction. Consider taking up a new hobby or engaging in an activity you already enjoy. You might find fulfilment in participating in a competitive sport, which can substitute the excitement of gambling with the thrill of competition.

 

Gamble aware has some great tools to help you reduce your gambling which you can access via their website below.

GambleAware®: Gambling Help & Gambling Addiction

 

 

There are many ways to get help for stopping gambling, and the best place to start is by seeking support. Battling any addiction is challenging, so having support is essential along the way. Lean on close personal connections, peers who understand what you're going through, and professionals who can provide guidance. If you're struggling with gambling or feel it's becoming a problem, it's important to talk to someone about it. Discussing your situation with an outside perspective can help you find solutions. Numerous organisations are available to assist you.

 Support services and helplines 

 

NHS Services

You can go to a specialist gambling treatment clinic in England.

They have a team of psychiatrists and psychologists who can:

• treat you if gambling is causing you problems
• support you with your recovery
• provide therapy for any complex health needs you have related to gambling
• support your family or friends if they need help

You can self-refer to a gambling clinic near you. Or you can ask a GP for information on services in your area.

Find out more about what’s offered and how to self-refer at:

NHS West Midlands Gambling Harms Clinic (WMGHC) website

 

To find out more about the NHS can offer please visit their website below.

Help for problems with gambling - NHS

 

Other NHS services:

• National Problem Gambling Clinic  - The National Problem Gambling Clinic is part of the National Gambling Treatment Service and is jointly commissioned by GambleAware and NHS England.

 

 

Charities and Helplines

There are also charities and support groups that offer free, confidential support to people who are struggling with gambling, and their friends and family.

Talk to an advisor at a national gambling helpline. You can often reach out through live chat, WhatsApp, their helpline, or online communities. This is a chance to have an honest and confidential conversation about what you're experiencing with a trained advisor who can assist you in planning the next steps in your recovery journey.

Please see below for some of the options available.

• The National Gambling Helpline (run by GamCare) – call 0808 8020 133 for free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free information, support and counselling
• GambleAware – the National Gambling Support Network service
• Primary Care Gambling Service – a national service providing support for anyone experiencing gambling-related harms
• GamLearn – the Gambling Lived Experience and Recovery Network service
• Gamblers Anonymous – a local support group service that uses the 12-step approach to recovery
• Citizens Advice Bureau – a charity that can advise you on a range of issues, including finances and gambling
• ChapterOne – a charity that can provide advice and support for anyone experiencing gambling-related harms
• Gordon Moody - Tackling Gambling-Related Harm - Gordon Moody are the UK’s leading charity dedicated to providing residential treatment and support for gambling-related harm, through recovery in a safe, supported environment.

 

 Restrict Your Access 

If you're looking to stop or limit your gambling, there are many free gambling blocking tools and services that can help you feel more in control.

There are three recommended ways to help ban yourself from gambling. These are:

Block access to gambling apps and websites:

You can download gambling software blocks onto your smartphone, tablet, or computer to help manage online activities. These programs effectively restrict access to gambling websites, mobile applications, and various other online services related to gaming. By implementing these blocks, you can create a safer digital environment that promotes responsible behaviour and helps you avoid potential gambling-related issues.

Gambling-specific blocking software you can use includes:

• Gamban
• BetBlocker

 

Exclude yourself from all UK gambling sites:

If you're worried that you're spending too much time or money on gambling, self-exclusion can be an effective way to regain control. All licensed arcades, betting shops, bingo halls, casinos, and online gambling operators offer self-exclusion programs to help you.

This is a voluntary agreement between you and the gambling sites or venues, allowing you to exclude yourself from using them for a specified period, typically ranging from six months to five years.

It is your responsibility to adhere to this self-exclusion agreement, but the gambling operators should also take reasonable measures to support your decision. However, if you happen to circumvent your self-exclusion and access these sites again, you should inform the gambling business. This feedback can help them identify areas where their procedures may need improvement.

There are several options available for self-exclusion, allowing you to restrict yourself from multiple companies at once or from a single gambling operator. These schemes are free, and the registration process is quick and straightforward. The UK Gambling Commission provides access to various self-exclusion schemes, which you can explore through the link below.

Free multi operator and national self-exclusion schemes

 

Request your bank to block gambling transactions:

Bank gambling blocks are free tools provided by most UK banks to help you manage your gambling habits. They work by blocking transactions that are categorised as gambling, whether you are betting online or at a physical venue.

These banking blocks add an extra layer of barrier to assist you in stopping gambling. They are an effective resource to use as part of your recovery, especially when combined with self-exclusion and blocking software.

Gambling blocks are set up at the card level. If you have multiple cards, you will need to establish blocks for each one. You can set up a gambling block through your mobile banking app, by calling your bank, or by visiting your local branch. Check the table below for specific instructions on how to block gambling on your bank account.

You can find out more about which banks offer this service by checking out the GamCare website below or by calling your bank.

Everything You Need to Know About Bank Gambling Blocks - GamCare

 

Implementing all three of these measures will help you stop gambling today. This strategy allows you the time and mental space to focus on planning your recovery and obtaining the support you need for a life free from gambling addiction.

By blocking access to gambling, you create space to explore the support methods and tools that can help you maintain a long-term avoidance of gambling.

 Other Methods for Self-Help 

For many individuals struggling with problem gambling, the hardest part isn’t necessarily quitting; it’s finding the strength to stay in recovery and commit to a life free from gambling. This journey can be especially challenging in today’s world, where the internet makes gambling so easily accessible, increasing the risk of relapse.

Yet, it’s important to know that maintaining recovery is absolutely achievable. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your struggles and hold you accountable. Create an environment that minimises temptation by avoiding triggering websites and situations.

Here are some tips to help you achieve and maintain freedom from gambling addiction:

• Acknowledge and understand the problem - To overcome a gambling addiction, the first step is acknowledging the problem. This takes courage, especially after losing money and damaging relationships. Don’t lose hope; many others have successfully broken this habit and rebuilt their lives. You can do it too.
• Get help for any underlying issues – If a mental or emotional disorder is affecting your gambling, it’s important to seek treatment. Conditions like depression, anxiety, or substance abuse can worsen your gambling problems. For those with bipolar disorder, manic phases may lead to risky betting. Even after stopping gambling, these issues can persist, so addressing them is essential.
• Recognise emotional triggers - Reflect on how negative feelings may lead you to gamble. People often gamble for entertainment or to escape problems. Create a list of your reasons for gambling. Do you do it when you're lonely, bored, or after a stressful day? While gambling may seem like a way to self-soothe, there are healthier methods to manage your moods and relieve boredom.
• Recognise external triggers - You might notice that you gamble around certain people. Let them know you’re trying to quit. If they pressure you or don’t respect your goal, consider setting boundaries or distancing yourself from them.
• List the reasons why change is necessary - Think about how much better your life could be without your gambling problem. Would you have less financial stress and healthier relationships? Write down your reasons for wanting to overcome this issue, and read them when you feel tempted to gamble.
• Reduce your access to money – You need money to gamble. Get rid of credit cards or use ones that can’t be used for gambling, close online betting accounts, let a spouse or parent be in charge of your money, schedule automatic payments with your bank, and keep only a limited amount of cash on you. These strategies can reduce the temptation to gamble.
• Don’t put yourself in tempting environments - Without a game to bet on, there’s no chance to gamble. Avoid tempting places and ask gambling establishments to restrict your entry due to your gambling problem.
• Find alternative activities - Merely aiming to "stop gambling" isn't enough; you need to find replacement activities to fill that time and energy. Schedule enjoyable hobbies or competitive sports that provide excitement. Physical exercise can also help. Identify your passions and connect with others who share your interests. Maintaining recovery from gambling addiction relies heavily on adopting alternative behaviours.
• Deal with gambling cravings - Feeling the urge to gamble is normal, but building healthy habits and a support network can help you resist cravings. When a craving strikes, acknowledge it and remember that gambling is a choice. If you feel the urge, pause and call someone for support. Reach out to a family member, meet a friend, or attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting. Try postponing gambling by waiting five, fifteen, or thirty minutes—set a timer if needed. During this time, the urge may weaken. If you use your phone to gamble, consider putting it away. Visualise the negative consequences of giving in to the urge, like losing money and disappointing yourself and your family. Revisit your list of motivations for resisting gambling, and distract yourself with activities like exercising, watching a movie, or practising relaxation techniques. Find something offline to do to distract yourself.

 

Coping with lapses

If you find yourself struggling to resist the urge to gamble, please remember that it's okay to feel this way. Don't be too hard on yourself, and try not to use it as a reason to give up. Overcoming a gambling addiction can be incredibly challenging, and setbacks are a part of the process for many. What's truly important is to learn from those moments and keep moving forward on your journey to recovery. You are not alone in this, and every step you take matters.

 

If your loved one has a gambling problem, you likely have many conflicting emotions. You may have spent a lot of time and energy trying to keep your loved one from gambling or having to cover for them. At the same time, you might be furious at your loved one for gambling again and tired of trying to keep up the charade. Your loved one may have borrowed or even stolen money with no way to pay it back. They may have sold family possessions or run up huge debts on joint credit cards.

While compulsive and problem gamblers need the support of their family and friends to help them in their struggle to stop gambling, the decision to quit has to be theirs. As much as you may want to, and as hard as it is seeing the effects, you cannot make someone stop gambling. However, you can encourage them to seek help, support them in their efforts, protect yourself, and take any talk of suicide seriously.

Here are some tips for family members of compulsive gamblers:

1. Start by helping yourself - You have the right to protect yourself both emotionally and financially. Do not blame yourself for the gambler's issues, nor allow their addiction to take control of your life. Neglecting your own needs may lead to significant issues in your own life.
2. Don’t go it alone - Coping with a loved one’s gambling addiction can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to justify their requests for "one last time." You might feel alone in your struggles, but support is available. Joining self-help groups like Gam-Anon can connect you with others facing similar challenges. Be open with your partner about seeking help due to the impact their gambling has on you and the family.
3. Set boundaries in managing money - To keep the gambler accountable and reduce relapse risk, consider managing family finances and monitoring bank statements. However, avoid micromanaging the gambler’s impulses. Your main focus should be safeguarding your own finances and credit.
4. Consider how you will handle requests for money -Problem gamblers often become adept at asking for money, using pleading, manipulation, or threats. It takes vigilance to avoid enabling their addiction.
5. Discuss your partner's problem gambling and its effects when you are calm and not feeling stressed or angry - Don’t lose your temper, lecture, or issue threats and ultimatums that you can’t follow through on. You shouldn’t stop your partner from participating in family life and activities. Getting angry or punishing them won’t help.
6. Encourage and support your loved one during treatment of their gambling problem, even though it may be a long process peppered with setbacks.
7. Don’t Bail your partner out of debt or enable their gambling in any way - Quick fix solutions may seem like the right choice. However, rescuing the gambler from debt can worsen the situation by enabling their gambling addiction to persist.
8. Don't cover-up or deny your partner’s problem to yourself or others – You are not helping them by making excuses for them or allowing them to hide from their issues.

 

Child and teen gambling

Many children and teenagers gamble despite it often being illegal. Gambling issues in youth can be worsened by frequent exposure to online gambling ads. As a parent, you can help your child avoid gambling addiction by taking the following steps:

• Watch for signs: Look for overt discussions about betting with friends or a strong preoccupation with gambling-related sites and apps. Other signs include asking for money frequently or reacting strongly to sports outcomes.
• Set a good example: Avoid gambling in front of your child and discourage reckless betting behaviours.
• Discuss gambling: Talk openly about how gambling works, stressing the low odds of winning and the risks of losing money.
• Limit access: While monitoring teens can be tough, you can manage younger children's screen time and use parental controls to block gambling sites.

Taking these steps can help protect your child from the dangers of gambling.

 

If another person's gambling is affecting you, support is available from:

• GamAnon: meetings
• Friends & Family - Gordon Moody
• GamFam: a lived experience support network
• Gambling with Lives: support for people bereaved by gambling-related suicide
• Find Free Gambling Support, Treatment & Therapy Centres