Support for gambling addiction – a comprehensive guide
Gambling addiction – be it online gambling or via traditional brick and mortar establishments – affects thousands of people and their families. Recognising the signs is important. Understanding the impact and knowing where to seek help are key steps in addressing this condition. Like alcohol addiction, simply acknowledging a gambling problem can be the first major step in managing it.
This guide provides detailed information and support options for those at risk.
Gambling addiction, also known as problem gambling, compulsive gambling and pathological gambling, is characterised by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite negative consequences. It can lead to serious personal, social and financial problems.
The negative impact of problem gambling can extend beyond the individual. It often affects family, friends and communities. Issues with finances, relationships, co-occurring disorders and mental health conditions are common consequences.
Understanding gambling addiction
Several factors lead to gambling addiction. These include genetics, the environment, and psychology. High-stress levels, trauma, mental health issues, drugs and exposure to gambling at a young age can increase the risk.
Gambling addiction has a negative impact on both mind and body. Psychologically, it can lead to anxiety, depression and a range of other mental health problems. Sufferers often start to obsess with the idea of gambling. Physiologically, the stress associated with gambling and chasing losses can result in insomnia, headaches and other stress-related symptoms.
There is a strong correlation between gambling addiction and mental health disorders. Many people with gambling addiction also suffer from depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Addressing these co-occurring disorders is essential for effective treatment.
Support options for compulsive gamblers
A variety of support options are available for people struggling with gambling addiction. These include professional treatment, local support groups, telephone helplines and online forums. Support from family and friends is also key.
Support groups offer a safe space for people to share their experiences and receive guidance. Meetings, whether in-person or virtual, provide a sense of community and accountability, which can be an important part of gambling addiction treatment.
Telephone support
Calling a problem gambling helpline can provide immediate, confidential support. The National Gambling Helpline has trained counsellors offering advice, support and resources to help manage gambling addiction. This can include directing the caller to local support centres for face-to-face counselling.
Online support groups
Online forums and support groups offer flexibility and anonymity. These platforms allow gamblers to connect with others who share similar experiences, providing mutual support and encouragement.
Family and friends can also play a crucial role in the recovery process. Their understanding, support, and encouragement can play a large part in overcoming addiction. They can also be important allies in recognising any warning signs of relapse.
Seeking support is a critical step in addressing gambling addiction. It helps individuals feel less isolated and provides access to resources and strategies to manage and overcome the addiction.
Support groups
Support groups provide a space where those sufferers can share experiences and offer mutual support. They offer a non-judgmental environment for discussion around overcoming gambling harm and addiction.
Joining a national or local support group offers numerous benefits, including emotional support, practical advice and a sense of community. It helps individuals stay motivated and accountable during their recovery journey.
Gamblers Anonymous. A 12-step programme providing peer support for those struggling with gambling addiction.
GamCare. Offers free information, confidential support and counselling for anyone affected by gambling.
GambleAware. Provides resources and support UK-wide for gambling addiction.
Big Deal. Catering for young people, this group provides advice and support for those negatively affected by gambling.
National Gambling Clinic. Run by the NHS, this service provides specialist treatment for problem gamblers. This clinic is based in London, but also accepts referrals from across Great Britain.
Gordon Moody Association. A charity providing specialist treatment and support for problem gamblers. It also offers residential treatment programs, online support and outreach services tailored to individual needs.
National Gambling Helpline. A specialist helpline offering immediate support via phone and live chat. It's managed by GamCare and funded by Gamble Aware.
Support treatment
Gambling addiction can be deeply upsetting for the sufferer. They may recognize they are a pathological gambler but feel helpless to change. It can lead to feelings of worthlessness and in extreme cases even thoughts of suicide. This is why reaching out for support and treatment as soon as warning signs of gambling addiction become apparent is so important.
Treatment approaches for gambling addiction can include therapy, medication and support groups. Each approach addresses different aspects of the addiction and its underlying causes.
Professional help is crucial for effectively managing gambling addiction. Trained therapists can offer personalised treatment plans and strategies to address the addiction and any co-occurring disorders.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Helps sufferers identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviour related to gambling.
Motivational Interviewing. Encourages individuals to find their motivation for change and commit to recovery.
Family Therapy. Involves family members in the treatment process to address relationship issues and provide a supportive environment.
Support network
Building a strong support network involves creating a reliable and understanding group of people who can provide emotional support and practical advice. This can include family and friends, professionals and support groups.
Sometimes close family are well placed to spot someone's gambling becoming a problem. Support, understanding, and the encouragement of family and friends can help sufferers feel less isolated and more motivated to overcome their addiction.
Open communication and understanding are key to maintaining a supportive environment. Encouraging honest conversations about struggles and progress can strengthen relationships. This approach can also provide additional support and motivation for recovery.
Self-help strategies
Self-help strategies can be an effective complement to professional treatment. These include setting a budget, avoiding triggers, talking to supportive family and friends, and finding other activities.
Although someone else’s input can be invaluable when getting professional help, self-reflection and self-awareness are also essential for recognising the patterns associated with gambling addiction. Understanding these patterns can help sufferers develop more effective coping strategies.
Developing healthy coping mechanisms is essential for managing stress and avoiding relapse. Exercise, hobbies and social activities can provide positive outlets, build self-esteem during recovery, and help reduce the urge to bet or gamble.
Online support
Online resources offer a convenient and accessible way to find support for gambling addiction. These can include websites, forums, live chat services, social media groups and virtual support groups.
Online support platforms offer anonymity, flexibility and a wide range of resources. This allows people to seek help at their own pace and connect with others facing similar challenges. They may also offer the opportunity to find specific groups for those whose addiction is connected to a certain type of gambling.
Live Chat. Real-time support from trained counsellors who can help sufferers talk through their issues.
Forums. Community discussions where people can share experiences and advice.
Webinars. Educational sessions on managing and overcoming gambling addiction.
Social media groups. Private groups offering peer support and a sense of community.
Virtual counselling. Some services offer one-to-one or group virtual counselling sessions, where sufferers can get support from a trained counsellor.
Effects of gambling addiction on relationships
A gambling disorder can strain relationships with family and friends. Trust issues, financial problems and emotional distress are common challenges faced by loved ones.
Support from family and friends is important in the recovery process. Their understanding and encouragement can provide a strong foundation for overcoming gambling addiction.
Fixing relationships strained due to gambling addiction involves open communication to rebuild trust. Professional support such as family therapy can help address underlying issues and improve relationships.
Financial implications and support
Gambling addiction can lead to financial problems, including debt, bankruptcy and loss of assets. Sufferers often become very worried about money on top of their gambling. This, in turn, exacerbates their mental health issues and stress levels.
Professional advice can help individuals manage debt and develop a financial recovery plan. Financial counsellors and debt management services can provide valuable support and guidance.
Numerous resources are available for financial support and counselling. These include debt management services and financial advisors. There are also specialist organisations and charities that help people with money problems related to gambling addiction.
Co-occurring disorders and mental health
Gambling addiction often co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Co-occurring mental health disorders increase the chances of a sufferer experiencing desperate thoughts such as feeling suicidal.
Seeking treatment immediately is vital. And addressing these co-occurring disorders is essential for a comprehensive treatment plan. Integrated approaches addressing gambling addiction and other mental health conditions can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse.
Integrated treatment approaches combine therapy, medication and support groups. Addressing gambling addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions, such as drug or alcohol abuse, together is a more holistic approach and can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery.
Prevention and relapse prevention
Preventing gambling addiction involves educating people about the risks while also promoting healthy attitudes to gambling and encouraging the use of safer gambling tools. Some practical methods of preventing gambling addiction include:
- Treating gambling as entertainment and never as a way of making money.
- Spending only the money you can afford to lose.
- Never prioritising gambling over your responsibilities to your job, education or family.
- Being open about your gambling with loved ones.
- Playing with low stakes.
- Never chasing losses.
- Avoiding gambling if you feel low.
- Gambling only with your own money, never with anyone else's.
- Using safer gambling tools, including setting deposit limits and time reminders.
- If necessary, use the ‘time out’ feature to give yourself a break. You could even self-exclude from all gambling sites at the click of a button if you are feeling out of control.
For recovering problem gamblers, identifying potential triggers is important for preventing relapse. This involves recognising the circumstances and emotions that increase the urge to gamble. And then developing strategies to avoid or manage them. Relapse prevention plans can include setting financial budgets, seeking ongoing support and developing healthy habits and routines away from gambling.
Conclusion
Gambling addiction is a serious and complex issue that requires comprehensive support and treatment. Seeking help is the first step towards recovery.
There are numerous resources and strategies available to help problem gamblers and their loved ones on the journey to recovery. It’s important to recognise that recovery can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, it is possible to lead a life free from gambling addiction.