We like to act the maggot, but we’re no fools, and we’d be stupid to help you identify a problem and then not tell you how to address it. So where should you or someone you know go if there’s a problem?
First of all, it might seem like a big deal to admit that there’s a problem – and it is. Problem gambling can destroy lives. But people admit they have a problem every day, and nobody thinks any less of them. In fact, it’s a sign of greater strength to admit there’s a problem, and even greater again to seek out help.
Below is a list of support organisations who help people who have gambling problems every day. They’re the best people to contact first.
GAMBLING THERAPY
Gambling Therapy offer online support to anyone addicted to gambling and those who show problematic behaviour. They offer a global service and support is available in multiple languages, so if English isn’t your first language this group will be very helpful. The Gambling Therapy app is free to download on iOS and Android devices.
GAMCARE
GamCare operates a national telephone and online helplines for anyone affected by a gambling problem and provides both face to face and online counselling.
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS
Gamblers Anonymous is a support group for people who wish to do something about their gambling problem and help others to do the same through attending meetings.
DUNLEWEY ADDICTION SERVICE
Dunlewey provides counselling, mentoring, education and support to individuals directly or indirectly affected by a gambling problem.
SAMARITANS
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. Whoever you are and whatever you’re facing, they won’t judge you or tell you what to do. They’re here to listen so you don’t have to face it alone.
Please gamble responsibly.#WhenTheFunStopsStop pic.twitter.com/Jur5E5mTy0
— Paddy Power (@paddypower) July 23, 2020
Always gamble safely and remember, when the fun stops. Stop. Safer gambling means you are having fun and feel in control of how you play. If your gambling is creating financial stress, anxiety, depression, or affecting your life in a negative way overall, then it may develop into a problem.
You can check out Paddy’s guide to sensible gambling, our 7 handy tools, and everything else you need to know about staying in control on our guide where there’s also information about, and links to, support organisations related to gambling.
More information about safer gambling:
- Our Safer Gambling hub… Everything you might need in one place
- The Paddy Power guide to safer gambling
- Paddy Power’s 6 tips on how to bet safely
- Paddy Power’s 7 tools to help you tackle problems with gambling