What is Gambling Harm?
Gambling can be an enjoyable activity for some people, but it can become harmful when it starts to negatively affect someone’s life, or the lives of the people around them.
Gambling harm is the term used to describe the negative effects that can be associated with gambling. This can include financial difficulties, debt, relationship problems, emotional distress and difficulties with mental health.
It is important to remember that gambling harm does not only affect the person who gambles. Partners, children, family members and friends can also be affected.
Recognising the signs of gambling harm
Gambling harm can affect people in different ways, and the signs are not always easy to recognise. You may notice changes in your finances, mood, relationships or everyday life.
You might be experiencing gambling harm if you:
- Spend more money gambling than you can afford.
- Borrow money or use savings, credit cards or loans to gamble.
- Struggle to pay bills or afford everyday essentials because of gambling.
- Try to win back money you have lost.
- Feel worried or overwhelmed by gambling-related debt.
You might be experiencing gambling harm if you:
- Feel anxious, stressed, low or overwhelmed because of gambling.
- Think about gambling frequently or find it difficult to stop thinking about it.
- Feel guilty, ashamed or upset about your gambling.
- Gamble to cope with difficult feelings, stress or problems your are experiencing in your life.
- Feel that gambling is affecting your confidence or overall wellbeing.
You might be experiencing gambling harm if you:
- Hide or downplay how much you gamble or how much money you spend.
- Have arguments or difficulties with family, friends or a partner because of gambling.
- Spend less time with people or doing activities you enjoy.
- Find that gambling is affecting your work, education or other responsibilities.
- Feel that trust has been damaged in your relationships because of gambling.
Gambling harm can also affect the people around someone who gambles. You may be experiencing harm if someone else’s gambling is causing you financial difficulties, relationship problems, stress or emotional distress.
You do not need to experience all of the signs outlined above to seek support. If gambling is having a negative impact on your life or the lives of those around you, support is available.
Resources and Support
If you are experiencing gambling harm, there are a range of resources and services available to support you.
Your GP
Your GP can offer advice and help you access treatment and support for gambling harm.
GamCare
GamCare is the leading provider of information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling harms. They also founded and operate the National Gambling Helpline which provides free support for anyone affected by gambling harms in Great Britain. Call 0808 8020 133
Recover Together
Recover Together offers free support across the UK to anyone affected by gambling harm, whether that is your own gambling or the gambling of someone close to you.
Things to Remember
As you work towards reducing gambling harm and improving your wellbeing, remember:
- I am more than my gambling, and gambling does not define who I am.
- I deserve support and understanding, without judgement or blame.
- I can take things one step at a time, and progress does not have to be perfect.
- Asking for help is a sign of strength, not failure.
- Recovery can take time, and I can keep moving forward even when things feel difficult.
- The impact of gambling can extend beyond me, and rebuilding trust, finances and relationships can take time.