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Supporting someone you care about

It’s hard watching someone you care about experience harm from gambling. If you are feeling overwhelmed, remember that you are not alone. We are here to help you understand the causes of gambling harms, and where to access the right help for both of you.

How and where to get help
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Are you worried about someone?

If you’re worried about someone you know, it helps to understand the full picture. Learning how gambling products are deliberately designed to keep people using them, and how the industry targets those who are already struggling, is a vital first step. This knowledge can help you remind them that it is not their fault and that you are there to support them.

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Gambling harms

Gambling harms are the negative effects that happen to someone after gambling. They can impact every aspect of life, including mental and physical health, finances, relationships, education, and work.

These harms extend to the people around them. You might be a loved one feeling these effects too.

It is important to know that this is not their fault, or yours. The gambling industry designs products to keep people engaged and using them, regardless of the harm they cause

Find out more about gambling harms
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Starting a conversation about gambling

It can be difficult to know what to say when you want to talk to someone you're worried about. Here are a few thoughts to help guide the conversation:

  • Learn about the causes of gambling harm and how different products are deliberately designed to keep people engaged.

  • Try to set aside any prejudice or assumptions. Society often blames the individual, but it is important to remember that this is not their fault.

  • People experiencing harm from gambling are not weak or bad. The gambling industry targets people already harmed, and recovering from gambling harms is possible

It is hard to watch someone you love go through these struggles, and it's very easy to put your own health and wellbeing to the side. I've learnt that it's so important to 'put your oxygen mask on first' and really look after yourself, living with someone in addiction and recovery is hard. Getting support as an affected other has benefitted me in many ways. It helps me to share the load, feel supported and not feel alone.
Laura, partner of someone in recovery from a gambling addiction

Looking after yourself

If you're feeling overwhelmed or don't know how to help, remember you are not alone. There are professional services available for people dealing with gambling, and there’s also support for those close to them.

GamFam is a charity empowering individuals and families to reduce the impact of gambling harms and move towards a more positive future. GamFam offers free online peer support, including structured peer support groups for affected others and separate groups for those directly in recovery.

How and where to get help
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