Getting Help

Gambling is meant to be entertainment but sometimes it takes over. If you notice it affecting your daily life, relationships or finances it is important to act. Seeking help is not weakness; it is a sensible step towards a better situation.

Do you recognise one or more of the following? It may be wise to seek professional support:

• • You play longer or with more money than you intended
• • You find it hard to stop, even when you want to
• • Your gambling causes problems with relationships or work
• • You have built up debt because of gambling
• • You feel anxious, depressed or stressed because of gambling
• • You hide your gambling from others

A short self-test can help you understand your gambling. Answer the following questions honestly:

• 1. Have you ever gambled more than you could afford to lose?
• 2. Have you ever lied about how much you gamble?
• 3. Do you often think about gambling when doing other things?
• 4. Have you ever tried to stop gambling but could not?
• 5. Do you gamble to forget problems or negative feelings?
• 6. Have you ever borrowed money to gamble?
• 7. Do you feel restless or irritable when you cannot gamble?
• 8. Have you neglected relationships or work because of gambling?

If you answered yes to two or more, professional help could benefit you. The test does not replace a clinical diagnosis but is a good first step to awareness.

Several forms of professional treatment are available for gambling problems. The right choice depends on severity and personal circumstances.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): The most effective treatment for gambling disorder. CBT helps you spot and change unrealistic gambling beliefs and develop healthier coping skills.

Outpatient care: Regular sessions with a therapist while you continue living at home. Suitable for mild to moderate problems with a stable home life.

Residential treatment: Intensive treatment in a clinic, typically 6 to 12 weeks, for severe cases. Includes individual, group and psycho-educational sessions.

Online therapy: Many UK providers now offer secure video sessions, a low-barrier option if attending in person feels difficult.

Gambling debt can spiral quickly. Do not ignore it. Several UK organisations can help you get your finances back on track:

StepChange: Free, expert debt advice and management plans for anyone in the UK, including dedicated support for gambling-related debt.

National Debtline: Free confidential debt advice by phone and webchat. Offers practical templates and budgeting tools.

Citizens Advice: Local advisers across the UK who can help with debt, benefits and consumer issues, in person, on the phone or online.

It is wise to tackle gambling debt alongside treatment of the underlying issue. Financial stress can otherwise trigger a relapse.

Alongside professional help there are steps you can take to regain control of your gambling:

Set limits: Use FoxyGold tools to set deposit, time and loss limits. They help you stay within budget. Read more on our page about responsible gambling.

Take a break: Use the self-exclusion feature to step away temporarily. A break can help you regain perspective.

Talk about it: Share what is happening with someone you trust. Talking relieves pressure and helps you find solutions.

Close your account: If you want to stop gambling you can close your account.

Find alternatives: Find other activities that bring enjoyment. Sport, hobbies, social time and volunteering are healthy replacements.

Gambling problems exist worldwide. If you are abroad or prefer help in another language, international organisations are available:

Gamblers Anonymous (GA): International fellowship with self-help groups in over 50 countries. Visit gamblersanonymous.org for meeting information.

GamCare (UK): Provides free information, advice and support for gambling problems by phone and live chat.

National Council on Problem Gambling (US): Operates a free, confidential helpline for gambling problems in the United States.

Gambling problems affect partners, family and friends too. If you know someone with a gambling problem you can also seek help. GamCare offers dedicated support for affected others, and Gam-Anon runs UK groups for relatives and friends.

Keep your own boundaries clear and avoid taking on the other person's debts or problems alone. Professional advisers can guide you through what to do.

Our customer support team can help you set limits, close your account or signpost you to support organisations. Reach us via live chat. Every enquiry is handled with respect and in confidence.