gambling/help

If you or someone close to you is struggling with a gambling problem, know that you’re not alone and that help is available.

This page brings together trusted international and local resources to support you and your loved ones. It is intended as a starting point, not an exhaustive list, but it can help you take the first step towards accessing support.

Problem gambling helplines

Gambling helplines offer free, confidential support to people with gambling problems and their families. Trained professionals who understand what you’re going through are available to speak with you, helping you to calm the situation, explore your options and connect with local services.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or out of control, contacting a helpline can help you regain control and plan your next steps. Most services are available 24/7 via phone, chat or text.

Region	Country	Phone number
North America	US	1-800-697-3783
North America	US (Spanish)	1-800-936-725
Europe	United Kingdom	0-808-8020-133
Europe	Malta	1777
Oceania	Australia	1-800-858-858

Gambling addiction stats

The harm caused by gambling affects millions of people worldwide. It affects not only those who gamble, but also their partners, families and close relationships.

Experts estimate that around 2% of adults globally have a gambling disorder, while many more are at risk of, or already affected by, harmful gambling behaviours. While men are more likely to experience gambling-related harm than women, the impact of this issue is felt across all ages, backgrounds and income levels.

Gambling addiction rates by country

Gambling is now legal in many countries. It has become normalised through new commercial associations with sports and cultural activities, which are now widely promoted. Globally, around 5.5% of women and 11.9% of men experience some level of harm from gambling.

Country	Gambling Addiction Rate	Affected Population
Latvia	6%	~111.5k
Hong Kong	5.8%	~429k
China	4%	~56.7M
Finland	3.3%	~185k
Canada	3.2%	~1.28М

Gambling addiction rates by age

Age Group	Gambling Addiction Rate
14-17 years	4-5% (10-14% at risk)
18-24 years	7.1% (7% college students)
25-34 years	Over 5% (36% of problem gamblers)
35-54 years	2.7%
55+ years	0.5%

These numbers highlight an important truth: gambling-related harm is common, and seeking help is normal.

Sources of help for gambling addiction

There is no single 'right' way to recover from gambling problems. Different approaches work for different people, and many people find that a combination of support options works best for them.

Evidence shows that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing can be highly effective. At the same time, peer support, self-help tools and practical safeguards can also play an important role, particularly as an initial step.

Support groups & Peer communities

Community	Country	Help for Problem Gambling
Gam-Anon	Global	Find a meeting
Gamblers Anonymous (GA)	Global	Find a meeting
SMART Recovery	Global	Find a meeting
GambleAware	UK	Find local support
GamCare	UK	Find local support
Evive	UK	Find support
GamLEARN	UK	Get justice support
GamFam	UK	Visit website
Gambling with Lives	UK	Get help
Betknowmore (BKM)	UK	Get help
Adferiad Recovery	UK	Get help
Gordon Moody Association	UK	Get help
EPIC Restart Foundation	UK	Get help
Breakeven	UK	Find support group
Ara Recovery for All	UK	Get help
Aquarius	UK	Get help
GamblingCare	IE	Get help
NCPG	US	Get help by state
PGF Group	NZ	Get help
Safer Gambling Aotearoa	NZ	Find local support
Amity Community Services	AU	Get help
Gambling Harm Support SA	AU	Find local support
GamblePause	NG	Find local support
GambleAlert	NG	Find local support
Responsible Gambling Kenya	KE	Find local support
South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF)	ZA	Find local support

Medical & Clinical treatment centers

People experiencing severe or long-term gambling problems can find professional treatment especially helpful.

Center	Country	Website
NHS National Gambling Clinic (NGC)	UK	https://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/
The Rutland Centre	AU	https://www.rutlandcentre.ie/
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)	CA	https://www.camh.ca/

Self-exclusion registers

Self-exclusion can help to reduce the immediate risk of gambling by limiting access to gambling services, whether online or in physical venues. Many people use it alongside counselling or peer support.

Exclusion register	Jurisdiction	Website
Gamstop	United Kingdom	https://www.gamstop.co.uk/
MOSES	United Kingdom	https://self-exclusion.co.uk/
SENSE	United Kingdom	https://www.senseselfexclusion.com/
BISES	United Kingdom	https://bingo-association.co.uk/self-exclusion/
Bacta	United Kingdom	https://bacta.org.uk/
Spelpaus	Sweden	https://www.spelpaus.se/en
ROFUS	Denmark	https://www.rofus.nu/en/
Gokstop (CRUKS)	Netherlands	https://cruksregister.nl/Gokstop

When you self-exclude, gambling operators must close your accounts, stop marketing communications, and return any remaining balances.

Blocking software & Self-help tools

Blocking software can prevent access to gambling websites and apps on all your devices. Such tools are often used as an additional security measure.

We have listed some of the available products. We encourage you to do your own research to find the best product for your needs.

Self-help tool	Website
Gamban	https://gamban.com/
Gamblock	https://www.gamblock.com/
BetBlocker	https://betblocker.org/

You should be aware that we cannot be held liable for any issues that may arise from the software you select.

You’re not alone

Reaching out for help can be difficult, especially at first. However, many people find that talking to someone, even anonymously, can help to reduce feelings of shame and restore a sense of control.

Support is available. Recovery is possible.