Debt advice

5. Support for gambling related harms

There are many types of gambling. They include arcades, betting, bingo, casinos, lotteries, and gaming machines. The internet has made gambling much easier. This means more people can now gamble online at home at any time.

Gambling harms are the negative effects that happen to someone after gambling. They can affect any and every aspect of life - mental and physical health, money, relationships, education, or work.

You might be a loved one or close to someone harmed by gambling and feeling the effects too. It’s important to know that it’s not their fault or yours. The gambling industry has designed addictive products that make people want to gamble and keep gambling.

Why is gambling harmful?

Knowing what to look for in someone who may be experiencing harm can be a helpful first step in protecting yourself or someone else. Some signs include:

  • Feeling anxious, down, or depressed.
  • Being stressed or irritable.
  • Not sleeping well.
  • Having thoughts of suicide or previous suicide attempts.
  • Gambling or thinking about gambling often.
  • Not being able to stop gambling, despite wanting to.

If you think any of these things are happening, you might benefit from some extra help.

Help is available

Asking for help can be hard, particularly if you’ve asked before and not received the understanding you need.

But you are not alone and we are here to support you and those you care about with free and confidential advice from specialists who have helped other people like you.

Chapter One

If gambling affects you, you are one of millions. Chapter One has the info to help you understand the causes of gambling harm. It will also show you where to get the right help. This help is free from gambling industry funding and influence.

Beacon Counselling Trust

Beacon Counselling Trust is in the North West of England. It offers free, tailored support and education to those affected by gambling harms. This help includes 121 therapy, couples therapy, practical help, and long-term recovery support.

The NHS Northern Gambling Service

If you think gambling could be affecting you, the NHS has clinics specifically to help. They’re easy to access and confidential. The team will provide you with information and support at every step.

Some, including the NHS Northern Gambling Service, also support the loved ones of people with a gambling addiction. This includes family, partners, and carers.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous is a group of men and women. They share their experience, strength, and hope. They do this so they can solve their common problem and help others do the same.

Gamblers Anonymous offers many aids for the compulsive gambler. These include a forum, a chat room, literature, and, most importantly, a meeting finder.

Meetings are the core of Gamblers Anonymous and they have meetings every day of the week.

For more information and to find a meeting visit:

GaMHive

GaMHive raises awareness. It reduces the stigma of gambling harm in Greater Manchester.

They work together and guide those experiencing GRH. This includes gamblers and affected others. They guide them to support and guidance groups. They also advocate for lasting policy change locally and nationally.

Citizens Advice

Citizens Advice gives people knowledge and confidence. They need these to find their way forward, no matter the problem.

They offer lots of help and support with money and debt. They can refer you to support with gambling.