Gambling addiction, also known as gambling disorder, is a serious behavioral addiction that can have devastating effects on a person’s financial, emotional, and social well-being. If someone you care about is struggling with this condition, your support can be crucial in their recovery journey. Here’s how you can help them in a compassionate and effective way.

Understanding Gambling Addiction

Before offering support, it’s important to understand what gambling addiction entails. Key signs of a problem include:

• Loss of control – Being unable to stop gambling despite negative consequences.
• Preoccupation – Constantly thinking about gambling, planning the next bet, or reliving past experiences.
• Chasing losses – Betting more in an attempt to recover lost money.
• Financial strain – Taking out loans, borrowing money, or even committing theft to fund gambling.
• Mood swings – Irritability, anxiety, or depression when not gambling.
• Neglecting responsibilities – Avoiding work, family, or personal obligations due to gambling.

How to Support a Loved One

1. Approach with Compassion, Not Judgment

• Avoid blaming or shaming the person. Addiction is an illness, not a moral failing.
• Express your concern with empathy: "I care about you, and I want to help you through this."
• Listen actively—let them express their feelings without interruption.

2. Educate Yourself on Gambling Addiction

• Learn about the triggers, treatments, and support groups available.
• Recommended resources:

  • Gamblers Anonymous (GA) – A 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – Provides helplines and local resources.
  • Therapists or counselors specializing in behavioral addictions.

3. Encourage Professional Help

• Suggest therapy (CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is particularly effective).
• Recommending a financial advisor can help them manage debts.
• If denial is an issue, consult a professional interventionist.

4. Help Them Avoid Triggers

• Remove access to gambling apps, credit cards, or cash.
• Avoid places like casinos, sportsbooks, or online betting sites.
• Block gambling websites on devices.

5. Provide Emotional Support & Set Boundaries

• Be patient—recovery takes time and may involve setbacks.
• Avoid enabling behaviors (e.g., lending money for gambling).
• Set clear boundaries to protect yourself, if needed.

6. Encourage Healthy Coping Mechanisms

• Promote hobbies, exercise, or spending time with supportive friends.
• Suggest stress-relief activities like meditation or counseling.

7. Seek Support for Yourself

• Supporting someone with an addiction is emotionally taxing.
• Consider joining support groups like Gam-Anon for family members.

When to Seek Emergency Help

If the gambling addiction leads to:

• Severe financial ruin
• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
• Legal troubles or extreme debt
  Contact a mental health professional or a crisis hotline immediately.

Final Thoughts

Recovery from gambling addiction is possible with the right support. Your patience, understanding, and encouragement can make a significant difference. Remember, you can’t force someone to change, but you can be there to guide and support them when they’re ready.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 (U.S.) or visit www.ncpgambling.org.

Would you like additional resources or tips tailored to a specific situation? Let me know how I can help further!