You Are Not Alone
Gambling addiction affects over 80 million people worldwide. It is a recognised medical condition, not a moral failure. Help is free, confidential, and available right now — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
All calls are free, confidential, and available 24/7
Gambling addiction — also called gambling disorder or compulsive gambling — is classified as an impulse-control disorder in the DSM-5. It is the only behavioural addiction formally recognised alongside substance addictions. If you answer "yes" to several of these, please reach out to one of the helplines on this page.
The Brain Chemistry
Gambling triggers dopamine release in the brain's reward system — the same chemical pathway activated by drugs and alcohol. Over time, the brain builds tolerance, requiring bigger bets and higher stakes to achieve the same rush. This is a neurological process, not a character flaw.
The Design Of Games
Slot machines, online casinos and betting apps are specifically designed to maximise engagement. Near-misses, variable reward schedules, sounds, lights and "free spin" mechanics exploit known psychological vulnerabilities. The industry spends billions engineering these hooks.
The Accessibility Factor
Online gambling is available 24/7 on every smartphone. Research shows online gamblers spend more money, play more frequently, and gamble for longer sessions than in-person gamblers. There is no closing time, no commute home to break the cycle — just another tap on the screen.
Self-exclusion means voluntarily banning yourself from gambling platforms. By law, gambling companies in regulated markets must offer this option. Combining multiple tools creates layers of protection — the more barriers between you and gambling, the better your chances of recovery.
Every helpline below is staffed by trained counsellors who understand gambling addiction. They will not judge you. Your call is confidential. Many offer support in multiple languages. If you are in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, call your local emergency number or a crisis helpline immediately.
Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
The original 12-step programme for gambling recovery. Free meetings worldwide — in-person and online. No signup required, just turn up. "The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling."
gamblersanonymous.org →Gam-Anon
Support group specifically for spouses, partners, family and friends of people with gambling problems. You deserve support too. Free meetings available.
gam-anon.org →SMART Recovery
Science-based alternative to 12-step programmes. Self-Management and Recovery Training. Uses cognitive-behavioural tools. Free online and in-person meetings.
smartrecovery.org →GamTalk
Free anonymous online community for people with gambling issues. Share experiences, get peer support. No signup required to read.
gamtalk.org →Gambling Therapy
Free online support from therapists and peer supporters. Available in 36+ languages worldwide. Live advisor chat, groups, forums, self-help tools.
gamblingtherapy.org →Gamblers, Family & Friends In Recovery (GFFR)
Online meetings born from COVID — for gamblers and their loved ones. Free Zoom meetings multiple times per week.
gfrr.org →Gordon Moody (UK)
Residential treatment for severe gambling addiction. 8-12 week therapeutic programme. Free for UK residents. Also offers online therapy and retreat weekends.
gordonmoody.org.uk →QuitGamble.com
Free 12-week "Stop Gambling" programme. Focuses on understanding why you gamble and addressing underlying causes. Online self-paced course.
quitgamble.com →Tell Someone
Break the secrecy. Tell one person you trust — a partner, friend, family member, or GP. You do not have to do this alone. Saying it out loud is the single most important first step.
Block Access Now
Install Gamban and register with GAMSTOP/BetStop right now. Delete all gambling apps. Ask your bank to block gambling transactions. The more barriers, the better.
Call A Helpline
Pick any number from this page and call. Trained counsellors are waiting. They have heard it all before. They will not judge you. It is free and confidential.
Secure Your Finances
Hand financial control to someone you trust if possible. Remove yourself from joint accounts that could be used to gamble. Contact the National Debt Helpline if you are in debt.
Find A Meeting
Gamblers Anonymous has meetings in 60+ countries — online and in-person. SMART Recovery offers science-based alternatives. Attend one this week.
See Your GP
Tell your doctor about your gambling. Gambling addiction often co-occurs with depression, anxiety and substance abuse. Your GP can refer you to specialist services and medication if appropriate.
Replace The Time
Gambling filled hours in your day. Replace it deliberately — exercise, walking, cooking, gaming (non-gambling), volunteering. Schedule these activities so you are not left with empty time.
Get Financial Help
Free debt counselling is available: National Debt Helpline (AU: 1800 007 007), StepChange (UK: 0800 138 1111), NFCC (US: 1-800-388-2227). They specialise in gambling debt.
Be Patient With Yourself
Recovery is not linear. Relapses happen — they are a normal part of the process, not a failure. Each day without gambling is a win. Professional support dramatically improves outcomes.
Living with someone who has a gambling problem is incredibly difficult. You may feel angry, betrayed, exhausted, and hopeless. You have every right to those feelings — and you deserve support too.
If you are feeling suicidal, please reach out now
Befrienders Worldwide: befrienders.org — helplines in 30+ countries
Statistics from: World Health Organisation (WHO) Gambling Fact Sheet 2024, The Lancet Public Health Commission on Gambling 2024, National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) 2025, QuitGamble.com 2024 Survey (3,200 respondents), Gambling Commission (UK), GambleAware, Gambler's Help Victoria. Helpline numbers verified as of February 2025. This page provides information only and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately. GAMBLE.CC is not affiliated with any gambling operator.