We know that for some people gambling can become harmful, it can happen to anyone regardless of age, gender, social class, cultural, or ethnic background. These harms impact on people's resources, relationships and health. Negative effects can include loss of employment, debt, crime, breakdown of relationships and deterioration of physical and mental health.
We know that gambling impacts everyone differently. However, there are some signs that can help you tell if someone is experiencing gambling harms, also known as 'gambling addiction'.
Some of the signs you may see or be experiencing are:
- Spending more time or money gambling
- Thinking or talking about gambling
- Feeling, guilty, anxious or irritable
- Changes to relationships
- Lying, hiding and stealing, denial.
Are you, or is someone you know, a person who is affected by gambling?
If you are or know a person who is experiencing gambling harms then try our screening tool to find out if gambling is harming you.
How to get help and support for gambling related harms
Confidential advice and support is available for people who gamble, people who are worried about someone else’s gambling, or for people recovering from past gambling. You are not alone.
- Beacon Counselling Trust (external link) offer you FREE, confidential and professional support if you are experiencing, or have experienced, gambling-related harms
- Gamcare (external link) offers support for yourself, a friend or a family member. GamCare also offers the National Gambling Helpline, which operates 24/7 and is free to access
- The NHS Northern Gambling Service (external link) specialise in delivering support and treatment for gambling-related harms, as well as taking a holistic approach which may mean addressing co-occurring mental health problems
- Gamblers Anonymous (external link) is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others do the same. Meetings are the core of Gamblers Anonymous and no appointment is needed, just turn up
- EPiC HOPE harbours (external link) are there for everyone. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, if you have been suicidal historically or recently, if you have lost someone through suicide or even if you just need to talk and share your feelings – that human connection. With peer to peer support and friendly volunteers, the Harbours are a safe place and you will always be made very welcome.
David's story
It all started with a big win at the races for David Smith who found himself addicted to gambling. He bravely told us about the impact it had on his life and how he managed to beat his addiction.