Family and Friends of Problem Gamblers
Friends and Family of Problem Gamblers
Problem gambling doesn’t just affect the individual. It affects family members and friends.
If someone you care about has a problem, the anxiety and concern you feel about their gambling can become all consuming. Living with the effects of someone else’s gambling can be too devastating to bear.
That’s why, whether or not your loved one chooses to get help, the best thing you can do is to get help for yourself. Here are some resources so you don't have to do it all alone.
Know the Signs
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Here are some of the warning signs:​
Unexplained financial problems
Reduced involvement in social/group activities outside the home
Emotional distress, anger, depression
Lack of communication among family members
Items of value lost or missing
Family members working overtime or taking a second job to make ends meet
One member (gambler) noticeably absent from or disinterested in normal family activities
If you are concerned about yourself or someone in your family, learn more at Get Help Now or call the 24-hour Problem Gamblers Helpline.
Resources
A Guide To Having the Conversation: Families and Gambling:
Guide from the National Council on Problem Gambling that discusses how to approach the conversation with problem gamblers who are family members.
Gam-Anon
Educational Resources, Meetings, and Prevention Materials.
Helping Partners in a Relationship with a Problem Gambler
Guide from the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio that discusses how to approach the conversation with problem gamblers who are partners or significant others.
Stand Up Colorado
To get help to change your behaviors, call the 10 to 10 Helpline at 877-898-3411 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. MT. Friends, family, and professionals who want to help someone stop harming their partner are also encouraged to call.
