Talking to loved ones can be a crucial step towards seeking support

Having open and honest communication with loved ones can be a crucial step towards seeking the support necessary for recovery

We all face tough moments and critical junctures in our lives. Some people might openly share their emotions, while others tend to keep their feelings and struggles to themselves.Addictions, including gambling, can greatly influence a person's actions. Opening up about these struggles to a loved one can be difficult, but can be an essential step towards recovery.<h3 class="thin"> </h3><h3 class="thin">Detecting The Problem In Time</h3>If you suspect that you have a gambling problem, remember that you're not alone, many people have been exactly where you are. The first step in sharing your struggles is <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/signs-you-might-be-addicted-to-gambling">recognising and admitting that you might have a problem.</a>Gambling addiction can wreak havoc on personal relationships, leading to communication breakdowns with those closest to you. The preoccupation with gambling, combined with financial stress and the pursuit of lost money, can cause you to neglect those closest to you.It is natural to feel hesitant to open up, it takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable. Accepting that you're facing a gambling problem is tough, but discussing your situation with friends and family is a crucial step towards your recovery. Your loved ones can offer emotional support, help set boundaries, and support you. It's important to remember that admitting to a problem and seeking help isn't a sign of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gambling-shame-and-stigma">weakness</a> but rather a brave step on the road to recovery.<h3 class="thin">The Benefits of Opening Up</h3>Having open and honest communication with loved ones can be a crucial step towards seeking the support necessary for recovery. Sharing your situation with those close to you can have a significant impact on your recovery process. Matt B., one of the many former addicted gamblers who has struggled with gambling has shared his experience of talking to his family and how much it has helped him to open up and begin his recovery. “Telling my friends and family about my gambling addiction was the hardest but best conversation I had, they all knew something was up with me the way I was acting out of character but once they knew the reason behind it and being honest for the first time in years it made it easier for them to understand why I was being the way I was, and from then on made it easier to have honest conversations and put support in place and they would look out for me.It is difficult opening up to friends and family and quite often they know something is wrong. They just want to know the reason behind it and from disclosure, it then makes things easier for them to understand and process.” Below are some of the most important reasons why it might be a good idea to talk to your loved ones:Emotional supportSharing your problems and worries with your loved ones can give you the support you need. Your family and friends can help you deal with your feelings and emotions, and offer understanding and empathy. Another perspective Sometimes it is difficult to realise the seriousness of a problem when you are directly involved in it. Those closest to you can offer a different, objective perspective on the situation you are going through. Their observations and advice can be valuable in identifying alternative solutions and support.VisibilityWhen you openly discuss your gambling issues with friends and family, you acknowledge the reality of the situation, making it more difficult to ignore the problem. This openness of your struggles can also be a powerful motivator, inspiring you and those closest to you to face the challenges head-on and seek lasting change.Resources and GuidanceYour loved ones can help you find resources, such as support groups, therapists or treatment programmes, that may be helpful in overcoming problem gambling. They may also be able to give you advice based on their own experiences or expertise.Preventing isolationGambling addiction can create a sense of loneliness and detachment, straining relationships with those around you. Opening up to friends and family about your struggles can bridge the gap and foster reconnection and understanding.<h3 class="thin">Seeking Help Outside Your Family and Friends</h3>While talking to loved ones about your gambling problem can be helpful, some may require professional help. Seeking professional help can provide you with tailored treatment options specific to your needs, such as individual therapy, group sessions, financial counselling, and other recovery methods. These experts can equip you with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/belts-and-braces-why-more-than-one-tool-can-be-helpful">tools and strategies to manage any gambling impulses</a>, identify and address any underlying issues, and support you in preventing relapse.By seeking help and talking openly about the problem, you can get the support and understanding you need to overcome your gambling addiction. It is important to know that you are not alone on this journey and that there are many<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling"> resources available to help you</a>.

I Think I Have a Gambling Problem, Who Can I Talk To?

Recognising Warning Signs Early On

How Casual Betting Can Lead to Addiction

The World Cup is one of the most significant sporting events in the world, and the most recent one last year was also the biggest one ever for sports betting. However, the end of the World Cup didn’t mark the end of sports betting activity, which continues to increase worldwide.So, is sports betting on major events like the World Cup, Super Bowl and NBA a problem? If so, you’re not alone. You’re among millions who are sucked into gambling addiction through sports betting.<h3>Here Are Some Warning Signs That  Your Sports Betting Could Be  Getting out of Hand</h3>Time Spent Gambling: You find yourself gambling more often than planned or for longer periods than you intended. You become preoccupied with gambling, constantly thinking about your next bet. You prioritise gambling over other important areas of your life, such as work, family, and social relationships.Lying to Loved Ones: You find yourself lying to yourself or others about the amount of time and money you have bet. Gambling Despite Consequences: You continue to gamble despite experiencing negative consequences such as financial difficulties, relationship problems, or legal issues.Unable to Stop: You have tried to stop gambling but find yourself unable to do so, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit. You experience a loss of control while gambling, chasing losses or placing increasingly risky bets in an attempt to win it back.Using Gambling for Escapism: You rely on gambling to escape problems or negative emotions. Some of these may have been caused by the gambling itself!Borrowing Money to Fund Gambling: You borrow money or resort to illegal activities to fund your gambling habit. Have you gotten into debt or do you find yourself asking others for financial help because large sums of money have been lost through betting?Sports betting can lead to addiction and cause negative consequences financially, professionally, or personally. If you're not sure whether gambling is a problem for you, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/top-10-tips-to-stop-gambling-online">setting limits</a>, being aware of the warning signs, and taking a break could be the first steps to regaining control.Set limits: Set a budget for your sports betting activities and stick to it. It's also important to limit the amount of time you spend betting.Be aware of the warning signs: Keep an eye out for signs indicating when sports betting is becoming a problem. Take a break: Regularly taking breaks from sports betting can help you avoid developing an addiction. Gamban can help remove that temptation and block you from all online gambling. Take time to engage in other activities and spend time with loved ones.If you're struggling with an addiction to sports betting, you can always reach out for help. There are resources available, including support groups and therapy. If you're in the UK, Gamban is free through<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.talkbanstop.com/"> TalkBanStop</a>, which includes support from GamCare and self-exclusion provided by GAMSTOP.GamCare offers a short test where you answer nine questions to understand more about your relationship with gambling. It's completely confidential and won't ask you for any personal information. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/understanding-gambling-problems/self-assessment-tool/">Start Your Test</a>

Signs You Might Be Addicted To Sports Betting

Here are some warning signs that your sports betting could be getting out of hand

Our Tips to Help You Stop Gambling Online

Some Ways to Overcome the Urge to Gamble

Modern technology has made us more connected than ever before; unfortunately, this also means that online gambling is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and allows anyone to place bets easily and quickly. Unlimited access to online gambling is just one of many factors that could lead to gambling addiction. In this blog, we’ll go through 10 of our top tips to help you stop gambling online.<h3> Recognising Bad Behaviours</h3>Begin to consider how much money you’re betting and how much time you’re spending gambling. Do you find yourself missing out on spending time with the people you care about because you're focused on your mobile phone? Recognising that you are engaging in harmful and potentially addictive behaviours is an important first step on the road to recovery.  <h3>Plan Your Time</h3>Many people find themselves gambling in their downtime, simply out of boredom. What other ways would you rather spend your time? Rekindling an old hobby? Taking up a new one? Spending time with family and friends?Invest your time in the activities that bring you joy. <h3>Make a List of the Reasons You Should Stop Gambling Online</h3>Perspective is important, and so is remembering that gambling doesn't only affect you. We recommend taking some time to think about the reasons why you should stop gambling and write them down. Some reasons to stop gambling could be to:<ul><li>Spend more quality time with loved ones</li><li>Spend time doing things you enjoy</li><li>Reduce stress</li><li>Avoid or get out of debt</li></ul>There are many reasons for anyone to stop gambling, but what are some personal to you?<h3> Get Back to What You like Doing</h3>Do you have a hobby that you’ve neglected? If the answer is yes, then it's time to revive an old passion. If not, this is an excellent opportunity to try something you've always wanted to do! Fancy yourself an artist? Try painting! Want to take up a sport? Join your local five-a-side! Always wanted to learn another language? Now’s your chance! As with most behavioural addictions, it is essential to replace negative addiction with a more healthy activity. This will help keep you focused on the advantages of your new lifestyle rather than what you are missing out on. <h3>Block Gambling Websites and Apps</h3>Blocking access to online gambling will mean that if you feel the urge to gamble, you won't be able to do it. Gamban is an easy-to-use, non-intrusive tool that, once installed on all your devices, will help you remove the temptation to gamble.It is also very important that you avoid forums or groups where the topics are focused on gambling.   <h3>Consult a Therapist Who Works with Addictions</h3>Gambling addiction can be challenging. Counselling or therapy may be the best course of action. There are many different types of support to suit anyone's needs and recovery journey: You can do it individually, in a group, in specialised centres, or online. <ul><li>One-on-one Support</li></ul>One-on-one support, such as talking with speciality therapists, counsellors and CBT. These types of sessions give you the opportunity to discuss what's on your mind with a professional in a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment.<ul><li>Support Groups</li></ul>However you're feeling, you're not alone. Support groups provide a space for you to connect with others, share your story, and hear from others like you.<ul><li>Residential Support </li></ul>If you're struggling to overcome your gambling addiction, residential treatment programmes can be an effective way of helping you to regain control of your life.You can find more information on our <a href="https://gamban.com/es/help">help page</a>. <h3>Distance Yourself from Friends Who Gamble</h3>It can be hard to abstain from something when others around you still participate in it. Gambling is no exception. Spending time with people who gamble often may tempt you to do the same. The best option is to tell your friends or distance yourself from them during your recovery. Your friends should respect your wishes and want to help you with your recovery.  <h3>Ask Someone You Trust to Stand by You and Help Keep an Eye on Your Finances</h3>Having someone to stand by and support you during your recovery journey can be a massive help. You can ask that person to remind you that you are on the right track and that your life is changing for the better.Having someone else keep an eye on your finances will help keep you accountable, as they'll know if you've gambled. Another option is money management services and banks that offer transaction blocking for casinos and online gambling sites. <h3>Reduce Stress with Meditation and Exercise</h3>Stress has been identified as a common trigger for gambling behaviour. Almost half of those undergoing cognitive behavioural therapy for gambling disorders identified negative emotional states, such as stress, as strong gambling triggers.Meditation and exercise are great ways to help reduce stress and keep yourself busy! You could always start by joining your local yoga class, gym or simply meditating at home.  <h3>Don't Give Up</h3>The road to recovery can be a challenging and long process. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither can addiction be overcome quickly - Don't give up! Everyone in recovery has moments of doubt, where they can feel their willpower slipping. Step by step, you will overcome these obstacles. This is all part of your journey to recovery.If you feel your willpower slipping and want a safety net, just in case. Download Gamban onto all of your devices and block yourself from online gambling.

Top 10 Tips to Stop Gambling Online

Some self-help tips for problem gamblers. Take your first step on your recovery journey.

Gamban’s International Coverage

Can Gamban Block Me from Online Casinos from Around the World?

Gambling exists all around the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/a-history-of-problem-gambling">world</a>. It's a globally recognised activity, generating more than £6 billion a year in Britain alone. As online gambling becomes more accessible, more people participate, and as the market grows we’re likely to see more and more gambling websites appear. "The high internet penetration and increasing use of mobile phones among individuals for playing online games from their homes and public places are driving the market. In addition, factors such as easy access to online gambling, legalisation and cultural approval, corporate sponsorships, and celebrity endorsements are also contributing to market growth. The growing availability of cost-effective mobile applications across the globe is further expected to fuel market growth." - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/online-gambling-market">Grand View Research</a>With so many new sites and apps appearing domestically and internationally, our users often ask if we block gambling websites worldwide. <h3>Does Gamban Block Gambling Sites Worldwide?</h3>Yes, we aim to provide a global service blocking <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/115004477813-Does-Gamban-block-ALL-gambling-sites-">all gambling sites internationally</a>. Our system automatically adds new gambling websites to our block list, as well as some sites manually confirmed by our team. Some casino review sites may still be accessible, but we aim to block all gambling sites that involve any transactions (i.e. the deposit or withdrawal of funds). <h3>I Found a Gambling Website That Gamban Does Not Block. What Should I Do?</h3>Despite our tireless efforts to ensure every gambling website is blocked, hundreds of new websites are launched every day, so some may slip through the cracks. If you do find an online gambling site that Gamban is not blocking, please email us at info@gamban.com, and we'll take care of it immediately! <h3>Online Gambling Is Illegal in My Country, Am I Still Protected?</h3>Yes, regardless of whether gambling (or a particular gambling site) is operating legally or illegally in your country, we will block it. We want to give our users the best chance at recovery so endeavour to block all online gambling, including unregulated and black market websites and apps. <h3>If I Go Abroad, Am I Still Protected?</h3>Yes, Gamban blocks your device from online gambling. So no matter where in the world you take your smartphone, laptop or tablet, you will be protected. Anywhere from the UK to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamaware.org/about-us/">Kenya</a> and beyond, Gamban will protect your device. Start your 7-day free trial today - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/pricing">gamban.com/pricing</a>

Does Gamban Work in My Country?

With so many new sites and apps appearing domestically and internationally, our users often ask if we block gambling websites worldwide.

Offering Greater Protection to Our Users

Gamban Extends Blocking Capabilities to Crypto and Trading Platforms

Gamban recognises an increasingly strong overlap between traditional gambling and emerging investment platforms, where there is significant capacity for harm due to exposure to risk from speculative trading and volatility.This follows research undertaken by Gamban in June 2021 on whether different forms of trading can be considered gambling, which found an overwhelming proportion of the general public viewed investing in cryptocurrency as a form of gambling. The report can be found <a href="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/Public_Report_Is_trading_a_form_of_gambling.pdf">here</a>.In the interest of our users, who have experienced harm from gambling, we have decided that these sites should be blocked by Gamban.The difficulty has arisen from these platforms offering different products, some more comparable to gambling than others but without a clear distinction between them. We must therefore be led by the most harmful product a platform offers and block based on this criteria. If a trading platform offers any of the following, it will be added to our block list:<ul><li>CFDs</li><li>Cryptocurrency exchanges</li><li>Binary options</li><li>Forex trading</li></ul> We recognise to some of our users, this approach will appear quite blunt. However, we feel that where inappropriately regulated products emerge, which exist at the intersection between gambling and investing, but are more akin to speculating, Gamban must block these if it is to remain the safety net our users rely on. The changes will be introduced from 1st August 2021. If you have any questions or concerns please contact info@gamban.com.

Gamban Blocks Trading Platforms

Protecting Ourselves from Gambling Advertisements

Limiting Gambling Ads Online

One question we’re often asked is, “Does Gamban block gambling adverts online?”. Currently, we do not. However, there are many options out there to help limit or block gambling ads. With how aggressive gambling advertising has become in the last few years, not just on television or billboards but online and on social media too, it’s become more and more difficult to avoid these potential triggers. Between 2014 to 2017 online marketing spend in the UK alone increased from £376m to £725m - almost doubling in just 3 years. Constant exposure to these advertisements is known to have an adverse effect on those who are at-risk or in recovery.Over lockdown, all retail gambling venues closed. This meant that activities that generated <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/news-action-and-statistics/Statistics-and-research/Covid-19-research/Covid-19-updated-July-2020/Covid-19-and-its-impact-on-gambling-%E2%80%93-what-we-know-so-far-July-2020.aspx">50%</a> of the total money made from gambling (excluding lotteries) paused. To cover the cost of these physical locations closing, much of their marketing spend would be used to promote their online casinos - with around<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2020-03-19a.1247.0"> 80% </a>of gambling advertising budgets now being spent online.This increase in advertising is even affecting those too young to gamble. According to a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/651381/england-and-wales-social-media-gambling-advertising-awareness-of-youths/">2020 survey conducted</a> among youths aged 11 to 16 in the United Kingdom, 31% of respondents stated that they had seen gambling advertisements on social media websites more than once a week, and 16% said they had seen gambling ads on social media once a week.My work often involves looking at or being exposed to online gambling to some degree. So advertising platforms see me as someone with some interest in gambling and, therefore, will show me more gambling ads. We've all done similarly; clicked on a pair of trainers you liked the look of, not purchased them, then been stalked around the internet by an advert trying to entice you to buy. However, this type of advertising applies to any device connected to a single wifi router. So, any device on my wifi (many that aren't even my own!) will be served gambling ads. If you live with someone impacted by gambling, trying to avoid all possible triggers, depending on the household's internet habits, can be an almost impossible task. So we have outlined some of the measures you can take.<h2>Facebook</h2>Although you cannot completely opt-out of or block seeing advertisements, you can influence the types of advertisements you see by providing feedback or hiding ads and advertisers that you do not want to see.<h5>To hide an ad:</h5><ul><li>Click more in the top right-hand corner of the ad.</li><li>Choose Hide ad.</li><li>Follow the on-screen instructions.</li></ul> <h5>To hide ads from an advertiser:</h5><ul><li>Click more in the top right-hand corner of the ad and choose Why am I seeing this ad?</li><li>Next to Hide all ads from this advertiser, click Hide.</li></ul> In addition, you can <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/help/247395082112892/?ref=u2u">adjust your ads preferences</a>. Your settings can be found <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/ads/preferences/?entry_product=ad_settings_screen">here</a>.<h2>X (Twitter)</h2>Similarly to Facebook, X (Twitter) doesn’t allow you to opt-out of all advertising. Some ways to help cut down on gambling advertising, or gambling-related content are:<ul><li>Blocking tweets from individual gambling companies. Click the down arrow and look for the option to "Block @..."</li><li>If the tweet is an advert, you can in the same menu select "Not interested in this ad"</li></ul> You can also select "Why am I seeing this ad", and access these two pages using the links provided <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://twitter.com/settings/account/personalization">here</a>. On this page, you can deselect interests that could lead to more gambling-related content, one of which is potentially "gambling," but un-ticking sport-related interests like "Football" could also help.You can also choose to mute specific words, phrases, usernames, or hashtags to prevent you from seeing content you wish to avoid. You can find out more about how to do this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/advanced-twitter-mute-options">here.</a><h2>Google</h2>Google has provided the following information: See Google's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://support.google.com/ads/answer/2662922?hl=en&amp;visit_id=1-636649087480150859-1435553078&amp;rd=1">remove unwanted ads</a> external page.<h5>Users can:</h5><ul><li>Block specific advertisers</li></ul>This feature exists on Google Search, Maps, YouTube and Gmail when you are signed in to your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/2662856#everywhere">Google account</a>. This will allow users to block advertisers such as Unibet, PaddyPower, 32Red, etc. To block individual advertisers with Google, click the small downwards arrow to the right of a search ad, select "About the advertiser", then change the "Show ads from ..." toggle to off.<ul><li>Mute This Ad</li></ul>"Mute This Ad" is a small overlay that appears in the top right corner of an advertisement. This lets Google know you no longer want to see this or related ads. Much of this is not an exact science, and amending the settings above will not guarantee you are protected from seeing gambling-related content and adverts, but it may help reduce the volume. <h2>Ad-blocking software</h2>For an added layer of protection, there is software and plugins designed to block all online advertising.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ublockorigin.com/">https://ublockorigin.com/</a>If gambling ads are proving too much of a potential trigger, block gambling at the source with Gamban. If willpower slips, Gamban doesn't. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Blog&amp;utm_medium=CTA&amp;utm_campaign=Blocking%20Ads%20Blog" role="button">Get Gamban Today</a>

How to Block Gambling Adverts Online

We outline some of the ways you can block or limit gambling advertisement online.

Do You Think You May Have a Gambling Problem?

We go over some of the common signs that point to gambling addiction

Gambling can take many forms, from betting on racing to playing the National Lottery. While gambling can be entertaining, there are some obvious (and less obvious) downsides. You could run up debt, endangering your chances to borrow money in the future, and even strain your mental health and personal relationships.Estimates for how many people are affected by gambling addiction range from <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.begambleaware.org/news/new-gambling-prevalence-methodology-review-published?s=09">0.7% to 2.4% of the UK's population</a>. Gambling, like drugs or alcohol, can stimulate the brain's reward system, leading to addiction. People who are addicted to gambling often continue to do so despite experiencing negative consequences financially, professionally, or personally.Some common signs of gambling addiction include:<h4>Making Larger, Riskier Bets</h4>A casual gambler may spend some of their disposable income on gambling activities. When their losses exceed what they are willing to spend, they stop. Gambling addiction is often characterised by the inability to control or stop gambling, carrying on even after losing more than you can afford usually to chase losses.<h4>Feeling Guilt After Gambling</h4>Beyond the initial feelings of sadness from losing, when someone has a gambling problem they may feel depressed and perhaps experience feelings of shame and guilt.<h4>Using Gambling To Distract From Other Problems</h4>Like other forms of addiction, compulsive gambling is sometimes used as a coping mechanism used to mask negative emotions and distract and escape life’s stressors and problems. Even if someone uses gambling to avoid dealing with negative feelings, the adverse effects of gambling include emotional side effects. <h4>Hiding Gambling Habits</h4>Lying to hide an addiction and its related behaviour is a core symptom of substance abuse, but gambling addiction is no exception. The obsession and compulsion to gamble can be so strong that the person will go to any lengths to place the next bet, and this usually includes lying to cover up where they are, what they are doing and what happened to their money. <h4>Social Isolation</h4>Gambling addiction often takes up a tremendous amount of time, missing out on events and other important obligations. Gambling while at work, when you should be sleeping or spending time with your family are also signs of addiction.<h4>Feeling Strong Urges To Gamble</h4>Addiction causes people to ruminate about their previous gambling experiences, and to think of little else than the next time they can place a bet. Even when there is a need to concentrate on everyday life activities, it can be difficult to think of anything else.<h2>Problem Gambling Self-Assessment</h2>If you're not sure whether gambling is a problem for you, GamCare offers a short test where you answer nine questions to understand more about your relationship with gambling. It's completely confidential and won't ask you for any personal information. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/understanding-gambling-problems/self-assessment-tool/" role="button">Start Your Test</a>Once complete, you'll be given information about the extent to which gambling may be causing a problem for you, as well as steps you can take to stay safe. If you’re in the UK, Gamban is free through the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.talkbanstop.com/">TalkBanStop pilot</a>, which includes support from GamCare, and self-exclusion provided by GAMSTOP.

6 Signs You Might Be Addicted To Gambling

Do you think you may have a gambling problem? We go over some of the common signs that point to gambling addiction.

Do You Know the Signs to Look For?

Are You Worried Your Partner May Have a Gambling Problem?

Gambling addiction is more common than you might have previously thought.You may take part in gambling socially, or perhaps you’re even planning a trip to  Las Vegas with some friends. For many people, it may be a fun, controlled activity. But for some, these situations can get out of hand, especially for someone struggling with a gambling addiction.In 2016, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/PDF/survey-data/Gambling-behaviour-in-Great-Britain-2016.pdf">the Gambling Commission reported</a> that there are 350,000 problem gamblers in the UK with two million considered ‘at-risk’. According to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/may/19/uk-gambling-addiction-yougov-research">a YouGov survey</a> last year, there could be as many as 1.4 million ‘problem gamblers’ and 7% of adults, or 3.6 million people, reported having been negatively affected by someone else’s gambling. Anecdotal evidence suggests that each problem gambler affects five to 12 other individuals. Gambling addiction can devastate relationships, destroying the sense of trust between partners, which is often a result of the secrecy or lies the addiction leads to.Do you know the signs to look for if your friend or loved one is among the many people who suffer from an addiction to gambling?<h2>What are the signs your partner is a gambler?</h2>Unlike substance misuse or sex addiction, it can be much easier to hide the signs of problem gambling from others. More so than ever now, given the recent increase in accessibility and prevalence of online gambling in recent years.<ul><li>Spending lots of time away. Being away from the home and being vague or secretive. Some gamblers will try to gamble discreetly and may get up early in the morning to do so while their spouse or family are asleep.</li><li>Emotional highs and lows. Gambling can affect mood. Does this person sometimes seem incredibly excitable and positive but then very low, frustrated or even angry at times?</li><li>A change in behaviour over time. You may feel like your partner’s behaviour has changed gradually, becoming increasingly difficult or secretive.</li><li>Secretive around finances. Does your partner become cagey or defensive on the topic of money? Have they taken steps to conceal bank statements?</li><li>Money going out of accounts without explanation. If you are spending large amounts of cash, it’s not always possible to hide it. Have you noticed any unexplained payments coming out of your bank accounts?</li><li>Secretive around internet use. Does your spouse regularly delete their internet history, or if questioned about their use of the internet, are they ambiguous and evasive?</li></ul> <h2>What Can I Do?</h2>If you suspect someone you know of having a gambling problem, there are many support organisations out there. Encouraging them to get help from a professional is the most effective support you can give them.However, it is important to remember that although you have been affected by a person's gambling to the point where you are ready for them to change, they may not be ready yet. You can seek professional help and offer support, but change requires the other person to be willing to engage with this support.<h2>Talking to Someone With Gambling Problems</h2>Many gamblers may not know they have a problem, and some may deny how excessive it has become. As a result, it can be a huge step to accept that their gambling is a problem.<ul><li>Talk it through. Although confronting someone about a gambling issue can be challenging, the best thing you can do is start by asking someone if the issue exists. Admitting to the problem is often the hardest part.</li><li>Explain how you feel. How does their gambling impact you and make you feel? It is important to discuss this and process your own feelings.</li><li>Be supportive. Show them that you are willing to be there and support them. Stay calm, be discreet and learn about what they're experiencing, so that you can be there when they need you.</li><li>Be patient. You may feel like you need to make appointments for them or go with them to therapy sessions, and encouragement is good, but constantly pushing may cause them to become stressed and turn back to gambling. Gambling recovery takes time and relapse is part of the process of recovery.</li><li>Avoid confrontation. Do not lose control, if you try to speak to the person and they become confrontational, take a deep breath and avoid arguing.</li><li>Don’t be quick to judge. Rather than condemn their actions, be supportive and ask questions. Asking questions shows a willingness to understand their problem and help.</li><li>Support groups. There are many problem gambling support groups and organisations out there, whether that be: contacting a GP, counsellor or charity who can provide them with advice and support. There are also many support groups dedicated to helping those who are affected by others' problem gambling. Find a list of support organisations below.</li></ul> <h4>National Gambling Helpline</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamcare.org.uk/">The National Gambling Helpline</a> (0808 8020 133) operates 24/7, 365 days a year. . The service is delivered by gambling treatment provider Gamcare and will give you advice on what your next steps should be. Their advisors are trained to deliver both emotional support and accurate information to aid those in need.<h4>Gamblers Anonymous</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/">Gamblers Anonymous</a> is a support group for those who are struggling with gambling problems. GA is made up of men and women who share their experiences in the hopes of overcoming their common problem and assisting others in recovering from a gambling addiction.<h4>Gam-Anon</h4>Gam-Anon is a support group for people who are husbands, wives, partners, relatives or close friends of someone with a gambling problem and who have been affected by this. Gam-Anon work to provide practical advice and assistance to affected others whilst also creating more awareness and understanding of gambling-related harm.<h4>GamFam</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamfam.co.uk/">GamFam</a> is a recovery and support group designed specifically for families of the disordered gambler. It offers a strong support network so others can understand the full extent of the problem and speak with those who can relate to their situation. It provides advice on how families can help themselves, along with practical tips for the day-to-day.   <h4>StepChange</h4>Citizens Advice has joined forces with GambleAware to provide assistance to gamblers, and those affected by gambling who are struggling with debt through <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.stepchange.org/">StepChange</a>. The StepChange Debt Charity offers free and confidential debt advice over the telephone and online to those in need of support.

Does My Partner Have a Gambling Problem?

Do you know the signs to look for? We run through some practical tips for anyone who thinks their partner may be addicted to gambling.

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Game Quitters' Cam Adair joins us to discuss the links between gaming and gambling, loot boxes, black market skins gambling and more.<figure><div><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eN_rbP-arA0" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div></figure><blockquote>"Covid-19 has accelerated the convergence between gaming and gambling and the impact on individuals is felt across the globe. It's never been more important for professionals to understand the risks associated with loot boxes, skin gambling and esports betting." - Cam Adair, GameQuiters</blockquote>With younger audiences growing increasingly tech-savvy and gambling being offered in variously more complex ways, growing better understanding and awareness is crucial to protecting those who are at risk; whether that be a concerned parent or a therapy professional.Skins gambling, esports betting and loot boxes. Learn the latest trends on the convergence of gaming and gambling by watching the replay of our webinar.

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Game Quitters' Cam Adair joins us to discuss the links between gaming and gambling, loot boxes, black market skins gambling and more.

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