Gambling
Why and how we can help you
“Gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs and alcohol can, leading to addiction”
A gambling addiction may see you continually chasing bets and losses, depleting savings, accumulating debt and becoming increasingly secretive with your betting behaviours or, at the extreme resorting to theft or fraud, all behaviours that have the potential to destroy lives.
The causes of compulsive gambling are unclear but risk factors include; having a mental health condition, being younger or middle aged, being male, taking medications used to treat restless legs syndrome or Parkinson’s disease, having a family history or friends with a gambling problem, or having competitive, impulsive and restless personality characteristics.
While there does not appear to be a way to prevent gambling addiction they can be successfully treated just like other addictions, and support is readily available.
Local Support Services
Drug Alcohol and Gambling Support Services for Adults
Useful Links for More Information
GamCare Range of information and advice for those experiencing or affected by a gambling problem
Gambling Therapy Offers helpful self-help exercises and online support
Last Updated: 14 July 2020