Gambling is a fun leisure activity for many, but sometimes, the rush of winning can make it difficult to stop. Someone who starts gambling for fun might not be able to walk away from the tables when their finances can’t support the next bet. Instead of taking the loss and walking away, someone with a gambling disorder might reach for a credit card or take out a loan to keep playing. A gambling disorder helpline might be the best help you can give in these situations.
An estimated 2 million Americans struggle with gambling disorders, disrupting their lives and ruining their financial health. Getting support for gambling addiction is critical to preventing social and financial consequences that can lead to other mental health troubles.
Warning Signs of a Gambling Disorder
A gambling disorder isn’t characterized by the amount or frequency of placing a bet; instead, it concerns the ability to say no and stop when betting isn’t within your financial means. If you think you or someone you know might have a gambling addiction, watch for some of the most common signs, such as:
- Thoughts focused on gambling. If you can’t say no to a bet or constantly make bets with those around you, it could indicate a gambling problem. When gambling becomes central to someone’s daily life, it can take over.
- Progressively bigger and more frequent bets. Many people gamble regularly on the lottery or with scratch-offs, but someone who starts spending more and gets upset if they miss an opportunity to play might be more than a casual gambler.
- Chasing losses. A focus on winning back prior losses often means even more money left on the table. Gamblers who spend time trying to even the odds are often in the throes of addiction.
- Being undeterred by negative consequences. If someone continues to gamble even after facing major debt, losing a home or filing bankruptcy, it’s a clear indicator that they have a problem with gambling.
- Mood changes and irritability. Like any addiction, a gambling addiction means someone might start to feel irritable or angry if they can’t place a bet or play their favorite betting game.
Ultimately, anytime someone can’t stop when they’ve reached their financial limit, it’s time to call a hotline for compulsive gambling. With the right support and treatment, many people can leave gambling in the past. Call a gambling disorder hotline for immediate help.
Calling a Gambling Disorder Helpline
The first step to getting help for gambling issues is to acknowledge the problem and reach out. There are many national and local resources available to help you or a loved one connect with treatment. Treatment typically involves therapy and support groups and may include medications to help. Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may be effective for someone with a gambling addiction. Below are some of the resources you can use to get help anytime.
National Mental Health Hotline
The Mental Health Hotline is a national number you can call for help with any mental disorder, including a gambling addiction. When you need support for a gambling addiction, the counselors who take your call can connect you with local mental health providers to give you access to ongoing treatment. All calls are free and assistance is available 24-7.
(866) 903-3787
SAMHSA National Helpline
Get free, confidential referral services through the SAMHSA National Helpline. This gambling disorder helpline is available 24-7 every day. Volunteer counselors lend an empathetic ear and provide information about local support groups, community-based services and treatment facilities to get you started on a gambling-free lifestyle.
(800) 662-4357
National Problem Gambling Helpline
With 27 contact centers operating around the clock and serving all 50 states, the National Problem Gambling Helpline can help. You can call, text or chat with a trained counselor who can provide information about self-assessments and local resources for treatment.
(800) 426-2537
Get Help Today
If gambling is affecting your daily life, it’s time to get help to stop the drain. Seeking help for gambling issues is a big step toward an addiction-free life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, contact the Mental Health Hotline at (866) 903-3787 for a referral of services. Our staff members offer information, empathy and help connecting you with treatment options and support in your local area.