Contact Information and Resources for Problem Gambling

What Is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling, also known as compulsive gambling, is a behavioral disorder that causes a loss of control over gambling activities. A person with a gambling problem will continue to gamble despite the negative consequences, often chasing losses and betting more even when it leads to serious financial or personal harm.

Gambling addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it can also impact their family, friends, and community. Unfortunately, it’s becoming an increasingly common issue, especially among young adults.

The path to problem gambling is often gradual, starting with casual entertainment and slowly becoming an unhealthy compulsion. There are warning signs, but they can be subtle, making it difficult to recognize the issue until it becomes severe.

Signs of a Gambling Problem

Here are some of the most common signs that gambling may be becoming a problem:

• Feeling guilty, anxious, or frustrated after gambling
• Constantly thinking or talking about gambling
• Gambling to recover lost money
• Experiencing extreme highs from wins and deep lows from losses
• Struggling to limit the amount of time spent gambling
• Feeling empty or restless when not gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble
• Selling possessions to fund gambling
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or loneliness
• Choosing gambling over social events, family time, or other responsibilities

Preventing Problem Gambling

Recognizing the early signs of a gambling problem can help prevent further issues. Understanding the principles of responsible gambling is also key to either avoiding addiction or regaining control if problems arise.

Responsible gambling involves strategies and behaviors that promote safe, enjoyable gambling. Key practices include setting strict limits on time and money spent, and viewing gambling losses as part of the entertainment rather than something that needs to be "won back."

Here are a few additional tips for responsible gambling:

• Take regular breaks from gambling
• Balance gambling with other activities
• Use tools available on gambling sites to set limits and control play
• Keep track of how much money you spend on gambling
• Only gamble when sober

Gamblers Anonymous: A Leading Global Resource

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, there are many support organizations worldwide. One of the most well-known and widely available is Gamblers Anonymous (GA).

GA operates in over 60 countries and offers a wealth of resources for problem gamblers. They provide support meetings in person, by phone, or online. These meetings follow a peer-support model, where individuals share their experiences and help each other recover, all in a confidential and non-judgmental space.

Membership to GA is free, and the only requirement is a desire to stop gambling or help someone else do so.

How Problem Gambling Organisations Can Help You

Support organisations provide comprehensive assistance for anyone affected by problem gambling—whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you care about. Their services are valuable at every stage, from early concerns to severe gambling problems.

Here are some key ways these organisations can help you:

• Offer confidential counselling and support
• Provide proven strategies and techniques for managing gambling behaviour
• Help identify personal triggers and understand gambling urges
• Guide you in implementing responsible gambling tools and limits
• Connect you with peer support groups and others sharing similar experiences
• Assist with practical steps like self-exclusion from gambling sites and venues
• Help develop personalised recovery plans

These services are typically free, confidential, and available 24/7 via phone, online chat, and in-person meetings. Professional counsellors and trained staff understand the complexities of gambling addiction and offer tailored advice to your specific situation.

Other Resources to Contact for Support

If you feel uncomfortable speaking to a gambling-focused organisation and prefer a different form of support, consider these alternatives:

• Suicide Support Organisations - If you’re feeling hopeless and contemplating suicide, immediate support is available through the World Health Organisation.
• Addiction Support Organisations - These organisations offer help for various addictions. SMART Recovery is a great example.
• Financial Advice Organisations - If you're dealing with debt or budgeting issues, Money Helper offers helpful guidance.
• Psychotherapy / Psychology - Speaking with a therapist can help you express your feelings and learn how to overcome addiction.

Using Problem Gambling Support Hotlines and Helplines

Reaching out to a problem gambling organisation may feel daunting, but remember—you are doing the right thing for yourself and those around you. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Initially, you will likely speak anonymously with a trained counsellor, who will ask questions to better understand your situation and determine the most appropriate support.

The type of support will depend on your circumstances, including the severity of your problem. Always remember that you are in control of your next steps—support services are there to advise and guide you, not to dictate what you should do.

How to Support Someone With a Gambling Addiction

If a family member or someone close to you is struggling with a gambling addiction, there are several ways you can support them. Don't hesitate to offer your help—it might be exactly what they need, even if they are too afraid to ask.

Remember, the support services listed on this page are not just for gamblers—they also offer guidance to concerned friends and family members. If you contact them, they can help guide you through the best ways to offer support.

A good starting point is simply being there for them. A supportive conversation might provide them with the clarity they need to seek help. You can also encourage them to get professional help from an appropriate organisation. If they’re open to it, assist them in researching their options and finding the right support service.

Above all, show compassion and understanding. Avoid passing judgment, as this can damage trust and make the situation harder to resolve.

Getting Help for Problem Gambling - A Final Word

Breaking a compulsive gambling habit is not easy, no matter how much you want to. If you're struggling with gambling addiction, know that you are not alone—many people face this challenge, and plenty of resources are available to help. However, you must be prepared to help yourself.

One of the biggest hurdles is admitting there’s a problem, which many gamblers struggle with. If you can take that first step, you're ready to start addressing the issue. The next challenge is taking action.

We recommend reaching out to one of the organisations listed on this page. The contact information is readily available, so there’s nothing stopping you from acting now.