Gambling takes many different forms, such as betting on sports, playing slot machines, playing bingo and buying National Lottery tickets and scratchcards. The rise of online gambling and smartphones has made it much easier for people to gamble. Sometimes this can lead to problems where people gamble too much and they find themselves unable to stop, or they try to win back money they've lost, making matters worse.
Someone may not realise at first that it's become a problem for them, but it can affect family life, relationships, health, work and self-esteem.
If you think you or someone you know needs support, please look at the following resources.
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The South West Gambling Service is now open for people living in the South West. It provides FREE confidential support to people affected by gambling addiction.
If you are registered with a GP in the South West and would like support to stop gambling then please get in contact with us.
- NHS.uk – The NHS website has this useful page with advice, tips, and signposting for anyone who thinks they might have a gambling problem or is affected by someone else's gambling.
- Gamblers Anonymous – a fellowship of men and women who share their experience with each other to solve common problems. Their website has a 'meeting finder' for face-to-face or online meetings, as well as group chatrooms and self-help resources.
- GamCare – free information, advice and support for anyone harmed by gambling, with a freephone helpline open 24 hours, seven days a week, online chat and group chatrooms.
