27/02/2026
Talking to someone about a possible gambling addiction is always going to feel like a difficult conversation. If you’re a friend or family member, the fear of upsetting the person or putting strain on the relationship can deter you from asking uncomfortable questions. But the truth is, a hard conversation now could really help their future and show them they are not alone.
How to know if someone has a gambling addiction?
Some people hide a gambling addiction from the closest people in their lives for years. The rise of online casinos and slots means that someone could be gambling anywhere at any time, and on the most addictive content, in complete secrecy. Never blame yourself for not seeing someone's addiction. It can be so easy to hide and cover up. The key is to understand the best way to help.
Signs someone may have a gambling addiction
- Their finances seem sporadic, sometimes having a lot of money, and other times being stressed about their finances. Perhaps even asking to borrow money soon after payday
- Being protective and secretive over their phone
- Being unable to cover major living expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments
- Hiding or being secretive about their bank statements
- Poor performance at work or school
- Becoming defensive when asked about gambling
- Low mood, anxiety and loss of sleep
- Lying about where they’ve been
Of course, none of these symptoms is definitive of a gambling addiction, but if you notice your loved one experiencing some or all of these, it may be a sign.
How to talk to a loved one about gambling addiction
Every person is different, but the key here is to be calm, direct and make sure the person doesn’t feel ambushed or blamed. Suffering gambling harm is hard enough, and there is so much guilt and shame around it that a conversation can trigger some intense feelings.
Approach the person in private when there is plenty of time to have a chat. Don’t time it before any big or stressful events, as this could leave the person feeling overwhelmed and unable to provide the mental bandwidth needed to be transparent with you.
Reassure the person that your love is unconditional, and you will still continue to support them. Encourage them to be completely open and honest by being non-judgmental. Although it can be a challenge, responding calmly and with empathy can make a huge difference. You may feel shocked and upset by what they say, but try to be neutral to the best of your ability.
It’s okay to not work everything out in the first conversation. Just knowing that you are there for the person is enough.
If you need to talk seriously about finances, perhaps schedule this for another good time when emotions have calmed down, and you can talk more logistically. It will likely be an intense but relieving conversation for both.
You may end up hitting a wall with the person, where they don’t want to talk. In this event, you need to give them reassurance and time, then bring it up a little later down the line. You may find that they end up opening up in the meantime anyway.
The practical side
Aside from having someone there for emotional support, there are multiple ways you can offer practical support to a loved one. Going through these and offering to help can be a huge weight off the person's shoulders and help them get moving into recovery.
- Gambling debt can feel overwhelming and scary, but there are organisations that can help. Find out more here.
- Block access to online gambling, both licensed and unlicensed, and access support through TalkBanStop.
- Self-exclude from all the betting shops in your area here.
- Self-exclude from all UK casinos here.
- There is support for affected others at GamFam.
- There is peer support, and support with the criminal justice system, available at GamLEARN.
- Gamblers Anonymous isn’t for everyone, but it's available worldwide and is a free, anonymous way to talk to others suffering from gambling harm.
- The Gamban Discord is another free, anonymous platform where you can get together with others to chat, play games, or just read what others have to say.
- Encourage them to listen to podcasts and videos from others who have recovered. This can be a source of inspiration.
You certainly don’t need to tackle each one at once, but supporting them through each step gradually is a huge step towards recovery.
Recovering from any addiction is a journey which isn’t linear. You’ll find the person has good and bad days, but having someone in their corner is invaluable.
