How To Help A Loved One With Gambling Addiction

Knowing that someone you care about is struggling with gambling addiction can be difficult. So when they take a brave step towards recovery, you want to support them as much as you can. If your loved one - be it a family member, close friend, or partner - is in the midst of their recovery, knowing how best to support them can feel difficult. So, here we've listed some great ways you can help them along in their journey.<h3 class="thin">8 Ways to Help a Loved One Recover</h3>1. Understanding Gambling AddictionEmpathy is the key to helping a friend or family member suffering from any addiction. It is important to understand <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-and-mental-health">what an addiction to gambling entails</a>, even if we find it hard to accept that a loved one has fallen into behaviours that have caused problems for themselves and those around them.  Instead of feeling anger or disappointment towards them, it is better to focus on the difficulties they face. By doing so, we can better help them during their recovery and be a source of inspiration and support. After all, they are not bad people trying to be good but rather sick people trying to get well.2. Asking Questions Without JudgementIt's important to show care by asking questions, but it's just as vital to understand and respect their limits. Each person's path to recovery is different, and sometimes they might not be in the mood or feel comfortable discussing it. Even if they're not ready to talk, let them know you're always there to listen when they are. Hearing something like, "Whenever you feel like sharing, know that I'm here for you," can be reassuring.And when they're ready to talk:<ul><li>Cultivate a Safe Environment</li></ul>Before you start any conversation, ensure that the setting is comfortable for both of you. This means both physically – perhaps a quiet, private space – and emotionally, where they feel safe to express their feelings.<ul><li>Use Open-Ended Questions</li></ul>Questions that can't be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no' encourage deeper conversation. Instead of asking, "Did you gamble today?", you might say, "How did you feel about gambling today?"<ul><li>Avoid Leading Questions</li></ul>Leading questions can unintentionally influence their response. For example, instead of asking "You didn't gamble today, did you?", a more neutral question would be "How was your day in terms of dealing with your urges?"<ul><li>Listen Actively</li></ul>Active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding to what the other person is saying. It means not just hearing the words, but also catching the emotions behind them. Nodding, maintaining eye contact, and giving feedback are all signs of active listening.<ul><li>Reserve Personal Opinions</li></ul>While you may have strong feelings about the situation, allowing them to share their experience without the fear of criticism is important. If they sense disapproval, they may shut down or become defensive.<ul><li>Be Patient</li></ul>It's possible they might not always have immediate answers to your questions. Give them the time they need to think and respond. Their journey is personal and intricate, so respect the pace at which they're comfortable sharing.While you intend to support them, ensuring that they never feel pressured or overwhelmed by your questions is crucial. Their comfort and well-being should always come first.3. Discussing Signs of Gambling AddictionRecognising and addressing gambling addiction can be challenging, mainly when the person affected is unaware of the problem or the nature of the addiction. Approaching the situation carefully, rather than simply telling our loved one to stop gambling, can help them overcome the issue and take the important step toward a more fulfilling life.We can support those who are unaware of their addiction and those who are ready to take steps towards recovery by discussing the signs of gambling addiction, such as financial problems, work-related conflicts, family problems and isolation, and relating them to the impact it has on their lives. Understanding the nature of the addiction can help an individual become more self aware and, in turn, take control of their recovery. 4. Joining and Encouraging New ActivitiesFor those struggling in recovery from a gambling addiction, finding ways to fill time is essential. By engaging in activities that do not involve gambling, such as exercising, reading, socialising with friends, or taking a long walk, someone can rediscover more fulfilling habits. Joining and encouraging your loved one in these activities can help create a stronger bond and a sense of support. 5. Educate OthersThe more people in your loved one's circle who understand their situation, the better. Discuss the situation with mutual friends or family (with their permission) to ensure everyone is on the same page. This isn't about spreading gossip but about creating a support system. Always prioritise their comfort and privacy, sharing only with trusted people and ensuring your loved one approves what's being shared and with whom.6. Avoiding TriggersEven with a strong determination to quit gambling, certain places and atmospheres can challenge your loved one's resolve. Being close to casinos, slot machines, or bingo halls may tempt them or, at the very least, make them uncomfortable. Support them by helping to steer clear of these triggers. Consider letting them know about self-exclusion registration. Tools like Gamban or transaction blocks from banks effectively limit access to online gambling platforms, with self-exclusion banning them from physical locations. Many <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">resources</a> are available to help keep both online and offline gambling temptations at bay.7. Being SupportiveDuring the challenging journey of overcoming addiction, providing unwavering support to those struggling is a challenge but it is essential. Empathy, kindness, and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them navigate through the stress and distress they may experience, including as a result of any relapses. Try to avoid reinforcing negative self-perceptions your loved one may have by criticising them if they relapse, as this may cause them to give up on quitting and lead them to gambling even more.8. Providing Resources and Professional HelpIt's important to let your loved one know that <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-helplines-finding-help-near-you">resources are available</a> to help them with their gambling problem. Seeking professional help can provide treatment options tailored to their specific needs, including individual therapy, group sessions, financial counselling, and other recovery methods. These experts can equip them with the tools and strategies to manage their gambling urges, identify and address underlying issues, and prevent relapse. <h3 class="thin">Make Sure You're Looking Out For Yourself Too</h3>Gambling addiction is an addictive behaviour that can arise due to various factors, and helping someone struggling with this issue can have a positive impact on their lives but also a significant impact on yours.While it's essential to remember that it's not your job to change someone's behaviour, you can help in numerous ways. It's important to keep in mind that you're not alone in wanting to care for a loved one. There are support services out there that can be of great help to both of you.If you're facing any difficulties, know that you don't have to go through it by yourself, and there's <a href="https://gamfam.org.uk/">help and support available for you</a> too.

8 Ways to Support Loved Ones Through Gambling Recovery

The Ins and Outs of Credit Scores and Gambling without the Financial Jargon

 How to Protect Your Financial Future

Rebuilding your life in recovery can often lead to challenges around your finances, especially when it comes to your credit score. This article will walk you through the ins and outs of how credit scores are impacted by gambling, without any financial jargon. <h3>Does Gambling Affect Your Credit Score?</h3>Now, let's get to the question at hand: Does gambling affect your credit score directly? The straightforward answer is no. Gambling does not impact your credit score. While gambling itself doesn't directly influence your credit rating, the associated financial behaviours that can lead to debts can potentially affect it. These might include:<ul><li>Cash Advances</li><li>Casino Credit Facilities</li><li>Payday Loans</li><li>Missed Payments</li><li>Cash Withdrawals</li></ul> <h3>Signs That Gambling is Affecting Your Finances</h3>There are several ways in which gambling can lead to financial strain, including betting more and more, chasing the "next big win", and falling into a cycle of debt and loss chasing. To avoid financial difficulty, it's essential to be aware of the warning signs of gambling related financial harm, such as increased borrowing and neglecting bills.Your day-to-day necessities, such as food and household bills, should always take precedence over gambling. If you're starting to worry about how gambling might be influencing your credit score, keep in mind that missing payments and accumulating debt will have consequences. For those thinking about major financial commitments like a mortgage, it's worth considering that lenders look closely at your financial history and stability. <h3>How to Protect Your Credit Rating </h3>Managing your credit rating and finances is an important part of your financial well-being. Here are some tips to help you maintain good credit score by avoiding negative marks on your credit report:Pay Your Bills on TimeBe sure to pay all your bills, including credit cards, loans, and utility bills, on time to avoid late fees and negative marks on your credit report.Maintain Low Credit Card BalancesKeep your credit card balances low compared to your credit limit. A high credit utilisation ratio can negatively impact your credit score.Regularly Check Your Credit ReportsYou are entitled to a free credit report annually from each of the major credit bureaus.Limit New CreditAvoid applying for multiple credit cards or loans within a short period. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your credit score. Consider Length of Credit HistoryTry to keep your oldest credit accounts open to maintain a longer credit history, as it can positively affect your credit score.Talk with CreditorsIf you are having difficulty paying your bills, try talking with your creditors for a lower interest rate or a more manageable payment plan.Avoid Closing Old AccountsClosing old or unused credit accounts can negatively impact your credit score. Consider keeping them open but with minimal or zero balance.Use Financial ToolsTo help you build a good credit score, we want to introduce you to a helpful tool called <a href="https://www.loqbox.com/en-gb/?affiliate_ref=103455342&amp;affiliate_source=692678446&amp;utm_source=partner+uk&amp;utm_campaign=gamban+uk&amp;utm_id=gamban+uk">Loqbox</a>.In the UK, Loqbox has both free and paid membership options, offering four credit building tools.<ol><li>Loqbox Save works the same way as its Lite counterpart, except there are no fees when unlocking your savings into an existing bank account. Over 12 months you make monthly payments that are reported to the credit agencies, and at the end, you unlock your savings.</li><li>Loqbox Spend is an interest-free credit account, part of the paid membership at an affordable £2.50 per week subscription. It grants you access to all the available resources whilst boosting your score. </li><li>Loqbox Rent makes your monthly housing payments work towards your credit score goals by reporting your rent payments to Experian, helping you to improve your credit history over time.  </li><li>Loqbox Coach provides easy to follow steps to improve your financial health and helps to plan your next steps with a personalised financial plan especially tailored to you. </li></ol> Coming to terms with how gambling is affecting your finances can be tough. If you think something like Loqbox might help, and you’re interested in learning more about your financial health and how to take steps to actively improve it, visit their <a href="https://www.loqbox.com/en-gb/?affiliate_ref=103455342&amp;affiliate_source=692678446&amp;utm_source=partner+uk&amp;utm_campaign=gamban+uk&amp;utm_id=gamban+uk">website</a>.Gambling can impact our relationship with money in many ways. But in recovery, getting the right habits in place will mean you can look after it and build for the future. Affiliate Link Disclosure: We believe in transparency on the web, so we’re disclosing that this post contains affiliate links to products or services. In this case, this means that, at no additional cost to you, we will get a referral fee from Loqbox if you decide to sign up. We only recommend products or services that we believe will add value to our users.

Does Gambling Affect Your Credit Score?

Simple Steps to Block Unwanted Gambling Marketing Emails

Are you overwhelmed with "deals" and "offers" emails from casinos? It can be especially challenging if you're in recovery and trying to avoid all temptations and triggers. In this blog, we'll highlight some straightforward steps to clean up your inbox and keep those spam emails at bay.  <h3 class="thin">Click 'Unsubscribe'</h3>For most of the world, all marketing emails must legally contain an unsubscribe link. If they don't have an unsubscription link (or you cannot use it due to directing you to the online casino), most email providers will allow you to unsubscribe directly from your inbox with just one click. Look for an option like 'Unsubscribe' or 'Block Sender' near the sender's name or at the top of the email.  <h3 class="thin">Sign Up With GAMSTOP</h3>If you're in the UK, GAMSTOP offers an efficient way to self-exclude from all gambling sites, and signing up will also stop all marketing communications. However, this only applies to online gambling sites licensed to operate in Britain.To sign up to GAMSTOP, visit their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">website</a>.  <h3 class="thin">Blocking, Sorting And Reporting</h3><h4 class="thin">Blocking</h4>When an unwanted email from a casino lands in your inbox, you can block that sender right away. After you block them, emails from that specific email address won't reach your inbox anymore.Look for an option like 'Block Sender' or similar, usually found near the sender's name or in a dropdown menu within the email.<h4 class="thin">Sorting</h4>Another option is setting a filter to send those emails to your spam folder automatically. While this option is slightly more involved, this is a great solution if you keep receiving emails from the same gambling site under different email addresses. Look for a 'Create Filter' or 'Rules' option in your email settings. From there, you can specify that emails from the gambling site’s address skip your inbox and go straight to spam.<h4 class="thin">Report</h4>You can report any email as spam, automatically moving that email to your spam folder for deletion. Most email providers will then receive a copy of the email for further analysis. If you continue to receive marketing emails, especially after self-exclusion, report them to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) or your local gaming authority (e.g., Malta Gaming Authority, Gambling Commission in the UK). They can impose penalties on any gambling sites that continue to send emails despite your requests to stop.  <h3 class="thin">New Email</h3>Sometimes, the best way to escape a relentless flood of online gambling spam emails is to start anew with a fresh email address. While creating a new email might seem like a big step, it will deliver you a cleaner, more controlled inbox overnight.  Keeping your inbox free from gambling emails is a big step in avoiding gambling temptation and preventing relapse. Whether it's through unsubscribing, using spam filters, reporting to authorities, or even starting with a brand new email address, each action will help you take back control of your inbox. Building a safer digital environment is a small but proactive step towards improving your overall well-being and peace of mind.

How to Block Gambling Marketing Emails

Effective Strategies for Easily Blocking Unwanted Gambling-Related Marketing Emails

Celebrating the Holidays while Managing Gambling Urges

The holiday season is here, and for many of us that invokes positive memories and feelings. However, it can also be a particularly challenging time if you're struggling with a gambling addiction.In this blog, we'll explore practical and effective ways to help you navigate this time of year while keeping your progress intact. Whether you're looking for ways to avoid triggers or looking for support, you'll find helpful insights and tips here.  <h4 class="thin">Your Journey</h4>First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge the journey you have been on. Overcoming gambling problems is a significant achievement, and you should be proud of the progress you have made. This holiday season, remind yourself of how far you have come despite all the obstacles you have faced.  <h4 class="thin">Planning Ahead</h4>One of the best strategies to handle potential triggers is to plan ahead: anticipate situations that might be challenging and devise strategies to address them. It could be rehearsing a polite “no” to gambling invitations or being open about these challenges with someone supportive so they are on hand to help.  <h4 class="thin">Block Unwanted Gambling Marketing Emails</h4>Keeping your inbox free from gambling emails is a big step in avoiding gambling temptations. Whether it's through unsubscribing, using spam filters, reporting to authorities, or even starting with a brand new email address, each action you take helps in building a safer, more controlled digital environment. Find out more about how to block gambling emails here - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-block-gambling-marketing-emails">https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-block-gambling-marketing-emails</a>  <h4 class="thin">Blocking Gambling Ads</h4>Seeing gambling ads on the internet can be frustrating when trying to quit. While Gamban doesn’t stop these appearing, there are many options out there to help limit or block gambling ads altogether. Read how to block gambling ads here - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-block-gambling-adverts-online">https://gamban.com/blog/how-to-block-gambling-adverts-online</a>  <h4 class="thin">Keeping Busy</h4>Many find themselves gambling in their downtime, with boredom often being a trigger. What other ways would you rather spend your time? Rekindling an old hobby? Taking up a new one? Spending time with family and friends? Fill your calendar with engaging, fulfilling activities that you enjoy. Make use of calendar apps to ensure your days are planned sufficiently.  <h4 class="thin">Connect with Loved Ones</h4>It's a time to surround yourself with the family and friends who understand and support the positive step you have taken. Have conversations, play board games, watch movies together or take them out for a meal with the money you’ve saved by not gambling.  <h4 class="thin">Getting Support</h4>Don't hesitate to reach out for help or join a support group if you feel overwhelmed. Professionals are there to help you navigate through tough times. If you're not sure where to start, our Get Help page offers a wide range of support options to guide you - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/help">https://gamban.com/help</a>  <h4 class="thin">Reflect and Appreciate</h4>During the holiday season, it's a good idea to take a moment each day to think about what you're thankful for and what you like about yourself. Some people like to write this down in a journal or in a notes app. This simple act of gratitude helps change your perspective, so instead of dwelling on negatives about yourself or anything you might feel is lacking, you focus on everything you already have in your life and think positively about yourself. It's a small, easy step that can make a big difference.  <h4 class="thin">Set Boundaries</h4>It's okay to say no. Setting boundaries is not just important for your recovery, it's necessary for your well-being. Decline invitations or activities that might lead to temptation.  <h4 class="thin">Celebrate Small Victories</h4>Every day you stay on track is a victory. Celebrate these moments. They are reminders of the positive change you have made that will lead to a better life and improved well-being.  As we wrap up 2023, we sincerely hope that the tips and suggestions in this blog will give you some guidance during the holiday season. Remember, taking preventive measures like installing Gamban on all your devices can provide an additional layer of protection against gambling temptation. Happy Holidays, From the Gamban Team

Holiday Tips for Gambling Recovery

A guide to managing gambling addiction during the holiday season: strategies, support and positive steps to avoid triggers

Understanding and Navigating the Risks of Online Roulette

Roulette is one of the most popular casino games online. With countless websites and apps, with more appearing every day, it can be difficult to avoid them and even easier to fall into their traps.Roulette has been refined over centuries. Blaise Pascal’s attempt to produce a perpetual motion machine led to the creation of the first roulette wheel in the 17th century. From its more primitive form, roulette grew through refinement to become so addictive and compelling that by the 19th century it had spread across Europe and the US, engrossing even Fyodor Dostoyevsky whose novella The Gambler reflects his own addiction to the game. It was outlawed in most of Europe by 1860.While some might want you to believe there are secret tips and tricks to help you win on a consistent basis, we can assure you that this simply isn’t true. These games are designed to entice and encourage you to gamble more, with hidden snares that can potentially lead you down the path of developing an addiction.In this blog, we’ll go over some of the ways online roulette tries to keep you playing and some lifelines should you ever need help. <h3 class="thin">Online Roulette Traps</h3><ul><li>Illusion of Control</li></ul>Online roulette creates the illusion that you have some control over of the outcome. "Red hasn't come up for a few spins now. Surely it must be overdue?" Nope! Even though a number or colour hasn’t appeared for a while, the chance of it appearing subsequently is no more than it’s ever been. Even though you can pick your numbers and create patterns in your mind, ultimately the result is 100% random every time. <ul><li>Quick Play, Quick Decisions</li></ul>Online roulette moves fast. You bet, and in seconds, you know if you've won or lost. Encouraging players to get swept up, either in the excitement of winning or in the panic of chasing losses. This can lead to placing more bets in a shorter time frame having not had time between spins to consider the consequences.<ul><li>Flashing Lights</li></ul>Casinos have spent significant time and effort into making their games visually appealing and engrossing. This involves more than just bright colours and flashy lights – it's a calculated design approach intended to captivate players, with some even including your favourite celebrities or cartoon characters.<ul><li>Accessibility and Anonymity</li></ul>Roulette is available online 24/7. This round-the-clock accessibility can be particularly difficult for those struggling with gambling addiction. It removes the natural time boundaries that traditional, physical casinos have, potentially leading to longer gambling sessions at any hour.Online roulette's anonymity creates unique risks: while it might feel safe and private, it can also disconnect you from accountability for your actions. This might lead to taking bigger risks than you would in person, where others can see you. <h3 class="thin">The Psychological Aspect</h3>Online roulette taps into our brain's reward mechanism. Every time we win, our brain releases a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-and-mental-health">surge of dopamine</a>, creating feelings of pleasure and reward, similar to what happens with substance addiction. This hit of dopamine reinforces our want to keep playing and to continue chasing the next win even following multiple losses.Over time, the constant pursuit of the next win can lead to a psychological pitfall, leading to a gambling addiction. The more we play, the more we become desensitised to the pleasure of winning, taking bigger risks in hopes of re-experiencing the same level of euphoria felt during initial wins. <h3 class="thin">Recognising a Problem</h3>It begins subtly. You might find yourself depositing more money or spending more time than planned on online roulette. Chasing losses becomes a common theme, with the belief that the next spin will make up for all you have lost. Neglecting other life aspects or feeling uneasy when not gambling are some of the tell-tale <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/signs-you-might-be-addicted-to-gambling">signs</a> of the beginning of a gambling addiction. <h3 class="thin">Steps to Break Free</h3><ul><li>Acknowledgement</li></ul>Looking inwards and accepting that you might have a gambling problem is the first step towards change. Understanding that gambling is an addictive activity, especially online roulette, will help you come to terms with this.<ul><li>Setting Boundaries</li></ul><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account?monthly">Taking a break</a> with Gamban by blocking access to gambling sites and apps will give you space to reflect on the impact gambling has had. If you are concerned that you are developing an addiction, then sign up to Gamban <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account">for at least a year</a>. You can also contact your bank to ask about their gambling blocking options. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-transactions">Many banks</a> offer gambling transaction blocks, allowing customers to "turn off" payments to gambling operators.<ul><li>Seeking Support</li></ul>Open up about your worries to friends or family. Consider joining support groups or seeking <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-helplines-finding-help-near-you">professional help</a>.<ul><li>Discovering Alternatives</li></ul>Take part in other activities, such as hobbies, exercise, or quality time with loved ones.<ul><li>Self-Exclusion Tools</li></ul>Many online gambling platforms offer options to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">self-exclude</a>, where you can ask them to stop you signing up to their site or app. There are also "<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">multi-operator</a>" schemes available, where you can exclude yourself from all licensed operators at once.Online roulette, like most forms of gambling, carries a risk of addiction. It's important to try to recognise the signs of gambling addiction early, and understanding how online gambling can psychologically impact you is a great first step.If you're looking for a way to take some time off or stop playing roulette altogether, Gamban is a helpful tool for reducing access to all online gambling.  Start your free trial today - <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account" role="button">Start Free Trial</a>

Beware the Spin: The Traps of Online Roulette

Understand roulette traps that could lead to gambling addiction and take practical steps to help you stay in control

From Las Vegas to Ohio, A Journey of Recovery with Gamban

The following is the story of an anonymous Gamban user from Ohio, one among many who've grappled with gambling addiction, experienced its impact and decided to take the steps towards recovery. Want to share your story? Submit yours to be featured on our blog at <a href="mailto:stories@gamban.com">stories@gamban.com</a>.My husband and I met in Las Vegas, where we both lived at the time. I was actually a table games dealer at the Golden Nugget from 2008-2010. It was fun, I worked in the party pit, I made a lot of friends and enjoyed the scene as a young person. My husband worked as a cabana boy at the Mirage. We moved to Ohio in 2012 to start a family.I had dabbled a little bit in online blackjack, roulette Nov 2022 - Jan 2023. It wasn't an issue for me yet, that is, until problems in my marriage surfaced that we both had ignored for 11 years. From February 2023 to January 2024, I accumulated over $25,000 in credit card debt from gambling. The amount of ridicule, shame, etc, I experienced was unreal. My husband honestly didn't know what to do to help me. I didn't either. He reached out to my parents, his parents for support. They couldn't offer any real advice and perpetuated me being treated like a child at 36 years old, which I believe contributed to further my mental health problems associated with my gambling addiction. Even though I was in the depths of this addiction, I fought hard for months to repair what was broken between us. Our last fight was when he found out I had gambled again around Jan 3rd. I moved myself out to the garage in freezing weather. I sat in a sleeping bag in silence for 48 hours. When I was finally cold enough, I came back in the house and looked up anti-gambling software on Google.I found Gamban. It's giving me my life back, and already has made such a difference for my marriage. I feel like I can breathe again, be present, and no longer look for reasons to make an excuse to gamble. It's a secret addiction most people keep hidden, even me. I no longer feel the need to hide what I did. I can talk freely and openly about it.That story is a reminder of how gambling addiction can silently take hold of our lives, often without us realising it until we're in too deep. But, there's also a powerful message of hope,  showing that with the right support and tools, change is possible.If this has inspired you to start your recovery journey, you can find support <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/help">here</a>. Gamban is also free through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://timeoutohio.com/">Time Out Ohio</a>, or you can start a Gamban free trial today.

A Gamban User's True Story

Read an inspiring real-life story of overcoming gambling addiction with Gamban. Discover how one user reclaimed their life and marriage.

Self-exclusion Programs Available Across Different American States

Gambling self-exclusion schemes are available throughout the US

Taking Control - A Guide to Gambling Self-Exclusion Programs in America

Gambling self-exclusion schemes are available throughout the US

Find a Gambling Helpline Near You

Are you struggling with gambling addiction? Find a Gambling Helpline near you

The first step on the road to recovery is recognising that there is a problem. Gambling addiction, like any other addiction, can be challenging to acknowledge. It often hides in plain sight, camouflaged as a harmless hobby, an escape from stress or by loss chasing. The shift from casual gambling to problem gambling can happen quickly, making it even more difficult to spot. By acknowledging that you're caught in a relentless cycle where gambling is no longer just a recreational activity but a compulsive need, you've taken the most crucial step toward a healthier and balanced life.But having acknowledged the issue, asking for help might seem daunting. But there is no shame in doing so. It takes courage and strength to confront our issues, and that's exactly what you're doing when you seek help. It shows your willingness to change, to focus on self-improvement, and to work towards regaining control over your life.Now that you’re ready to talk to someone, where do you start?<h3 class="thin">Gambling Helplines</h3>Many countries offer a Gambling Helpline for those struggling with gambling addiction. These helplines are generally available around the clock, providing immediate assistance, guidance, and support whenever needed. Whether you're dealing with an urgent crisis or simply need someone to talk to about your struggles, these helplines can be a lifeline, helping you navigate your recovery.Aside from these, numerous non-profit organizations and recovery groups also operate helplines for those affected by gambling problems. Many offer additional resources, such as connections to support groups, assistance with financial management, and help in developing a recovery plan.Here is a list of some of the major gambling helplines you can call, sorted by country. <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/128c5e7c-c6ba-404c-bf70-51d65485ffb3.jpg" /> Country - UK  National Helpline - GamCare Languages Offered - EnglishGamCare offers free information, support and counselling for people who have problems with gambling in the UK. Gamban can be accessed for free through GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline.Phone number - 0808 8020 133Open 24/7Services Offered - Phone / SMS / Live Chat / EmailFind out more about GamCare here - <a href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/talk/">talkbanstop.com</a><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/ff2a84ea-1f8c-4897-97f5-bcb47882001d.jpg" /> Country - US National Gambling Helpline Languages Offered - English The National Gambling Helpline offers free practical advice and support to anyone affected by gambling across all states in the US.Phone number - 1-800-GAMBLEROpen 24/7Services Offered - Phone / SMS Find out more about National Gambling Helpline here - <a href="https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/national-helpline-1-800-522-4700/">https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/national-helpline-1-800-522-4700/</a>  <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/631679b5-8ffc-495f-ad32-2b4d768c5f9c.jpg" /> Country - Canada Canada Safety CouncilWhile Canada doesn’t have a centralised helpline, there are still many options available for you. Follow the link below to find the helpline in your area - <a href="https://canadasafetycouncil.org/gambling-addiction/">https://canadasafetycouncil.org/gambling-addiction/</a> <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/930cb78f-0ba7-43dd-a3ab-801deed0c88a.jpg" />Country - Australia Gambling Help Online Languages Offered - English / Interpreter Service AvailableGambling Help Online offers free information, guidance and specialist treatment for people experiencing problems with gambling in Australia. Phone number - 1800 858 858Open 24/7Services Offered - Phone / SMS / Live Chat Find out more about Gambling Help Online  here - <a href="https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/">https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/</a>   <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/a1c9716b-4ec8-4c79-a84f-c4ca793fa30e.jpg" /></figure>  Country - New Zealand PGF Services Languages Offered - English / Cantonese Chinese / Chinese / Korean / Japanese / Mandarin Chinese / Samoan / Tongan / Thai / Hindi / VietnamesePGF Services offers free information, resources, tools and support for people experiencing problems with gambling in New Zealand.Phone number - 0800 664 262Open between 8.30 am and 5.00 pm, Monday to FridayServices Offered - Phone / SMS / Live Chat Find out more about PGF Services here - <a href="https://www.pgf.nz/">https://www.pgf.nz/</a>   <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/bb2f020f-c6bb-4d21-8bec-86c2fe816be5.jpg" /></figure>  Country - Spain Fejar Languages Offered - Spanish / Catalan / Basque / Galician / EnglishFejar offers free, anonymous, and confidential support for people who have problems with gambling in Spain.Phone number - 900 200 225Open 24/7Services Offered - Phone AvailableFind out more about Fejar here - <a href="https://fejar.org/">https://fejar.org/</a>  <img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/9979a172-3a21-4de6-a6db-d870a18c1a98.jpg" /> Country - France SOS Joueurs Languages Offered - FrenchSOS Joueurs offers free information, support and resources for people who have problems with gambling in France.Phone number - 09 69 39 55 12Open 24/7Services Offered - Phone / EmailFind out more about SOS Joueurs here - <a href="https://sosjoueurs.org/">https://sosjoueurs.org/</a>   <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/e8624b2f-443d-49b4-a586-df5300270b75.jpg" /></figure>  Country - Germany ​​Gluecksspielsucht Languages Offered - GermanGluecksspielsucht offers free guidance and counselling for people experiencing problems with gambling in Germany.Phone number - 0800 0776611Open 24/7Services Offered - Phone AvailableFind out more about ​​Gluecksspielsucht  here - <a href="https://www.gluecksspielsucht.de/">https://www.gluecksspielsucht.de/</a>  <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/283eaa72-8d0d-4d30-8ab4-6c90c965cb10.jpg" /></figure>  Country - Finland Peluuri Languages Offered - Finnish / English / SwedishPeluuri offers free tools, support and counselling for people who have problems with gambling in Finland.Phone number - 0800 100 101Phone Available - Mon-Fri 12-6 pmLive Chat Available - Mon, Wed and Fri from 12-3 pmServices Offered - Phone / Live Chat Find out more about Peluuri  here - <a href="https://www.peluuri.fi/">https://www.peluuri.fi/</a><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/3ed683e2-a746-4462-a041-a45829831ad3.jpg" /> Country - Norway Hjelplinjen  Languages Offered - Norwegian / EnglishHjelplinjen offers free information, support and counselling for people who have problems with gambling in Norway.Phone number - 0800 24 000 22Phone Available - Mon - Friday, 9 am to 6 pm Live Chat Available - Mon - Friday, 11 am to 3 pmServices Offered - Phone / Live Chat / EmailFind out more about Hjelplinjen here - <a href="https://hjelpelinjen.no/">https://hjelpelinjen.no/</a>  <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/51c44e71-7510-4425-b8f6-75e1d619e802.jpg" /></figure>Country - Sweden Stodlinjen Languages Offered - Swedish / English / Interpreter Service AvailableStodlinjen offers free information, anonymous, and confidential counselling for people who have problems with gambling in Sweden.Phone number - 900 200 225Phone Available - non-holiday days, Monday 9 am to 7 pm, Tuesday 9 am to 5 pm, Wednesday 9 am to 5 pm, Thursday 11 am to 7 pm and Friday 9 am to 3 pm.Services Offered - Phone Find out more about Stodlinjen  here - <a href="https://stodlinjen.se/">https://stodlinjen.se/</a> <figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/b556480b-25cf-4ba3-869d-59ded659103e.jpg" /></figure>Country - Netherlands Loket Kansspel Languages Offered - Dutch / EnglishLoket Kansspel offers free information, help, guidance and support for people who have problems with gambling in the Netherlands.Phone number - 0800 24 000 22Open 8 am and 12 pm.Services Offered - Phone / SMS / Live Chat Find out more about Loket Kansspel  here - <a href="https://www.loketkansspel.nl/">https://www.loketkansspel.nl/</a> No matter where you are in the world, there is always someone available to support you towards recovery. Gambling Helplines exist to provide guidance, resources, and customised treatment plans to individuals struggling with gambling addiction.  Professional help can take many forms, including one-on-one therapy, group meetings, financial advice, and other recovery techniques that offer strategies and resources to help control gambling urges, identify root issues, and avoid relapse.  By seeking help and openly discussing what you’re going through, you can gain the necessary support and empathy to overcome addiction. Remember that you are not alone in this journey. Whether it's yourself, a friend or a family member, it's never too late to ask for help.

Gambling Helplines - Finding Help Near You

How Much Is Too Much?

The Hidden Costs of Gambling

Whether it’s buying a lottery ticket, betting on a big match or playing online slots, many of us have gambled at some point in our lives. A little over £14 billion was spent on gambling in the UK last year, with more than 420,000 gamblers in Britain losing at least £2,000 a year, 3.1% of UK gamblers having bet more than they can afford to lose, and 7% of gamblers saying they did so as a way to “earn money to get by day-to-day”.Using gambling as a way to get your hands on a bit more money may sound appealing, but the odds of it working out that way make it virtually impossible in the long run. Gambling should never be used as a way to make money, as it can very quickly spiral out of control. Chasing a bigger win, or upping your bet to make back what you’ve lost are common traits that lead to losses spiralling out of control.<h3 class="thin">How Much Do I Spend?</h3>When it comes to gambling, it's easy to lose track of how much you're spending, especially when caught up in the excitement of it. Everyone spends a different amount, but it’s important to work out exactly how much you are spending. Take a long hard look at your finances, how much have you spent on gambling in total? Do you gamble regularly? In that case, how much do you spend on average? Do you set yourself limits?GambleAware offers a tool to help you calculate your true gambling cost, which might help put your spending into perspective. Find out more here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.begambleaware.org/spend-calculator">https://www.begambleaware.org/spend-calculator</a>If you find that you're struggling to control your spending, that could be a sign you're developing an addiction.<h3 class="thin">How Much Is Too Much?</h3>While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to “How Much Is Too Much?”, it’s important to know your limits. If you’re unable to pay for bills, rent, basic amenities, or even to afford certain luxuries, that’s a sign you may be spending too much on gambling. If your gambling gets in the way of what you really want, you’re spending too much. If you’ve forgotten how to enjoy something other than gambling, it might be time to reconsider your relationship with it.<h3 class="thin">The Financial Consequences of Gambling Addiction</h3>Financial consequences can include accumulating debt, using money intended for other essential expenses such as bills, and financial hardship. If you are spending more than you can afford, you may find yourself in a situation where you cannot meet your financial obligations, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and even legal issues. Below, we go into more detail about the possible situations some may find themselves in. Debt Gambling addiction can lead to mounting debts as some may use credit cards, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/payday-loans-and-gambling">loans</a> or borrow from friends and family to finance their gambling. This could result in financial ruin, damaged credit score and even bankruptcy.Loss of savingsSome may even use their savings or retirement funds to finance their gambling, leaving them with little or no savings for emergencies or retirement.Job lossGambling addiction may cause some to miss work, be late, or to perform poorly due to the effects of gambling, and could lead to them losing their job.Gambling addiction can have devastating effects that go beyond just financial loss. Individuals who struggle with gambling addiction may experience negative impacts on their self-esteem, physical and mental health, and relationships with others. The consequences of gambling addiction can be far-reaching and may affect not only you but also those around you. <h3 class="thin">Breaking the Cycle of Overspending</h3>The first step is to acknowledge that you have a problem with overspending on and over-engagement with gambling. This can be difficult, but it is important to be honest with yourself. Many people find themselves in this position, so you are not alone. The best thing you can do for yourself moving forward is to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/top-10-tips-to-stop-gambling-online">avoid the temptation to gamble</a>. Gamban is one option to help you <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">abstain from all online gambling</a>, blocking your devices, to give you the peace of mind of knowing that even if you wanted to gamble on your smartphone or computer, you can’t. It’s also important to find support. Whether that’s someone close to you, a trusted family member, a close friend or spouse. You could even reach out to others like you on online forums or gambling support groups, such as GamCare’s: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/forum/">https://www.gamcare.org.uk/forum/</a>Are you struggling with debt because of your gambling? You are not alone. There are many organisations out there that can help you get your finances back on track. Find out more about these organisations <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/struggling-with-gambling-debt">here</a>.

Am I Spending Too Much On Gambling?

When it comes to gambling, it's easy to lose track of how much you're spending.

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