Irritability and restlessness
Do you feel you are irritable and restless when not gambling?
Helping a friend or family member seek help is not always easy, but can be a very rewarding experience.
Someone I know is a problem gambler
LENDING A HELPING HAND
Problem gambling is a serious mental health problem, but it is an obstacle which can be overcome if the individual receives professional help and support from loved ones. Helping a problem gambler can be challenging, but you can play a crucial role in this person’s life, and we are here to help support you in this journey.
We have listed some information on how you can help below, and we strongly encourage you to take action if a loved one exhibits a number of the following symptoms of problem gambling.
WARNING SIGNS
I spend more money on gambling than I intend to.
Time and money
Do you lie to hide the amount of time and money spent on gambling?
SELF ASSESSMENT
This tool is aimed at anyone looking to get a clearer picture of their gambling profile. The assessment is made up of a series of statements, and you will be asked to indicate how well you feel each statement describes your situation. At the end of the assessment, you will be presented with a summary of which areas of your life may be affected negatively by your gambling. You will also receive suggestion about which tools may be helpful based on your responses.
TEST NOWLET’S GET TO WORK ON TACKLING THE PROBLEM!
Taking the decision to help is a brave step, but it is important to keep the momentum going! We have compiled some practical advice on how we can help your loved one break free of the problem.
INFORMING OPERATORS
One of the most important steps you can take if you feel you have developed a gambling addiction is to inform any online operators of this so that they can close your account. This is a crucial step in the road to recovery. It will afford you some protection if you are ever tempted to play on these websites, and will reduce the chance of relapse. The closure of your LeoVegas account does not signal the end of our journey together – we will still be available to listen and provide you with any help we can!
BLOCKING TOOLS
If your friend or loved one feels that they are unable to stop gambling, it would be encouraging for them to hear about the tools offered by Gamban and BetBlocker. Installing this software on any device he/she uses to gamble will restrict access to any website from which a bet can be made. This discrete tool reduces the risk of relapse as it adds a secondary layer of protection between the individual and gambling, keeping them firmly on the road to recovery.
We strongly encourage you to install the software on any device you share with this individual. The purchasing options are flexible, and allow you to use the product for a period of time the individual’s needs.
HELP ORGANISATIONS
If a friend or family member is a problem gambler, this can take its toll on you. It is important to remember that you are not alone! There is a wealth of resources available for problem gamblers and their friends and family. GambleAware, GamCare and Gamblers Anonymous are all dedicated to raising awareness about and minimising the effects of problem gambling. GamCare offer a concise list of relevant and useful information, which will serve as a more in-depth guide on where you can find help. The organisation also offers specific advice for you as someone who is indirectly affected by problem gambling. A free counselling service is also available, as well as advice on debt management. The services also offer chatrooms, forums, and meetings wherein your loved one can share his/her experiences and learn from the experiences of others.
You could be a vital part of your loved one’s recovery, and we are here to support you should you need us. The fact that you are willing to help is commendable, and the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) may be a very good starting point!
Feel free to contact us if you would like any help or advice, or if you simply wish to talk!
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