Supporting someone experiencing problem gambling

Finding the right time and space can help the other person feel more comfortable opening up.

• Pick a calm, relaxed moment: Bringing up gambling during a stressful situation might make them defensive. Instead, pick a time when they seem more open, such as during a casual activity or meal.
• Find a comfortable space: A private, non-judgemental environment, like a walk or a quiet place at home, can help them feel at ease.
• Respect their privacy: If you bring it up in front of others, they may feel embarrassed or shut down. A one-on-one setting can feel safer.

If they’re not ready to talk, that’s okay. The most important thing is letting them know you’re there. A simple ‘I’m here whenever you feel like talking’ can be reassuring without adding pressure.

Many people with gambling problems don’t realise how often or why they gamble. Helping the other person notice triggers can be the first step toward change.

• Ask gentle, open-ended questions: ‘Have you noticed what makes you want to gamble?’ or ‘What feelings come up before you decide to gamble?’
• Explore the emotional link: People often gamble to escape stress, anxiety, or boredom. A question like ‘Do you feel like gambling helps you cope with something?’ can help them reflect.
• Encourage self-awareness: Suggest keeping a ‘gambling diary’. Journaling thoughts and feelings that come up before and after gambling can help the other person see patterns in their behaviour, such as specific times, places, or emotions that trigger the urge to gamble.

Replacing gambling with healthier activities can help break the cycle, especially if gambling has become their main source of excitement or social connection.

• Encourage hobbies or social activities: Suggest doing something enjoyable together, like a walk, a movie night, a game night, or learning a new skill.
• Help them reconnect with other interests: If gambling has taken over their time, they may have lost touch with activities they once loved. A gentle nudge to revisit old hobbies or find new ones can be helpful.
• Suggest stress-relief strategies: Many people gamble as a way to cope with stress. Encouraging exercise, meditation, journaling, or talking to someone they trust can provide healthier outlets.

If they’re open to it, you can explore support options together. Some people find professional counselling or structured treatment programs helpful, while others prefer self-help strategies.

You can suggest:

• Self-exclusion programs: The National Self-Exclusion Register (BetStop) allows people to ban themselves from gambling services across Australia. You can encourage them to sign up if they’re ready to take a step toward change.
• Gambling Help Online: Gambling Help Online is a free, confidential service that offers counselling and support for both gamblers and their loved ones.
• Gamblers Anonymous: You can suggest a peer support group like Gamblers Anonymous where people share experiences and strategies for recovery.
• Financial counselling: If gambling has caused financial hardship, organisations like the National Debt Helpline offer free advice on managing debt and financial recovery.
• Addiction treatment services: Gambling addiction is recognised as a behavioural addiction, and professional treatment (such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling) can help. You can learn more about addiction and treatment approaches in our understanding and managing addiction guide.

Supporting someone experiencing problem gambling can be emotionally exhausting, especially if their actions have affected you directly. You might feel helpless, frustrated, or even betrayed, particularly if gambling has led to financial stress, broken trust, or strained relationships. If someone you love has lost money meant for rent, bills, or savings, it’s completely understandable to feel angry, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next.

These feelings are valid. You don’t have to push them aside or pretend everything is okay. Taking time to process and release them can lighten your emotional load and help you decide what steps to take next.

• Acknowledge your emotions without guilt: It’s okay to feel hurt, disappointed, or even resentful.
• Talk to someone you trust: Whether it’s a close friend, a counsellor, or a support service like Gambling Help Online, sharing your experience can help you feel heard and supported.
• Seek financial advice if needed: If the other person's gambling has impacted your financial stability, consider reaching out to a financial counsellor for guidance. Services like the National Debt Helpline can provide free support.
• Be kind to yourself: Remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can in a difficult situation. Supporting someone through problem gambling isn’t easy, and it’s okay to prioritise your own wellbeing.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to go through this alone. There are services available to help you navigate your next steps, whether that’s setting boundaries, addressing financial concerns, or processing the emotional toll.