Let’s open up about gambling
Have you ever found it hard to talk about your gambling, or to seek support?
You’re not alone – many people feel like this. This is one of the biggest barriers to people seeking help and talking openly about their challenges. Often they feel worried they’ll be judged by others about their experiences. This is called stigma.
Breaking down stigma
People sometimes feel judged or discriminated against because of the stigma around gambling harms. This stigma can stop people affected by gambling harms from getting the right help and being able to talk openly about their challenges.
Real people, real stories
Mina's story
"I try and set myself limits to keep it under control. You can sit there and say you’re in control – but sometimes you’re not. Having a spend calculator is really helpful….it visually shows how much you’re spending. You can’t ignore it."
Watch Mina's story
Adam's story
"I never thought I had a problem. I didn't want to be seen like a gambler and addict. But they're all the things that I was...I think now knowing that I can pick up the phone to someone, or I could reach out to someone and get help straight away…it might have been easier."
Joanne's story
"I never talked about anything. I wish I had, just saying stuff out loud makes such a difference… I went to group meetings and the more I spoke about my story, the more open I was. And the more I was getting asked questions and getting more involved. It was that that helped me in my recovery."
Watch Joanne's story
Tracy's story
Angellica Bell spoke with Tracy about her experience of gambling and how it affected her life.
Watch Tracy's story
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Advice for opening up
If you have any difficulties with gambling, or how it makes you feel, talking to someone will help.
Opening up about your gambling, or someone else’s, can feel difficult. But there are simple ways to help you have a good conversation with someone you trust.
How to have a conversation about gamblingEarly signs that gambling could be causing you harm
Sometimes it’s difficult to see the effects of gambling. Knowing the signs of gambling harms can help you understand if gambling is causing difficulties and if you could benefit from help and support.
Some of the signs include:
Learn More
If you want to learn more about the risks and signs of gambling harms, and how to get help we've got support available here.
How to help someone who gambles
Whether it’s a friend, family member, loved one or colleague – it can be difficult knowing what to say or how to help.
There are a number of ways you can support, including getting a better understanding of what they’re going through, showing empathy, and looking out for yourself too.
Help a friend or loved one
Professional and partner resources
If you’re a GP, healthcare worker, gambling treatment provider or any other service or healthcare provider that has contact with people who might be experiencing gambling harms, you can help to challenge stigma and connect people to the right support. We have a range of resources to help you do this.
Help a patient or client