Gambling Addiction —How Your GP Can Help
When gambling shifts from entertainment to harm
Gambling can begin as entertainment, but for some people it becomes difficult to control. Gambling addiction (also called gambling disorder or problem gambling) involves persistent gambling despite financial stress, relationship strain, emotional distress, or harm to work and daily life. It is not about weakness or “lack of discipline.” It is a recognised health condition influenced by psychological, behavioural, social, and sometimes neurobiological factors.
Signs that gambling may be a problem
Warning signs can include spending more than intended, needing to gamble larger amounts to feel the same excitement, chasing losses, hiding gambling from family, borrowing money to continue gambling, feeling anxious or irritable when trying to stop, or gambling to escape stress, loneliness, boredom, or emotional pain. These patterns often develop gradually and can feel hard to break.
Why gambling addiction matters for health
Gambling addiction affects more than finances. It is linked with anxiety, depression, sleep problems, relationship breakdown, family stress, and in severe cases, thoughts of self-harm. Financial difficulty can lead to shame, secrecy, and frightening stress. Recognising the emotional and health impact is an important step toward support rather than self-blame.
Why seeing your GP helps
Gambling issues are medical and psychological health concerns that deserve professional care. Your GP can help by offering a safe, confidential space to talk, screening for associated mental health issues, supporting emotional wellbeing, and arranging referral to specialist gambling support services, psychologists, counsellors, financial counselling, or addiction services when appropriate. Care is collaborative and respectful, never judgmental.
Treatment and support options
Support may include counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, addiction treatment programs, peer support, financial counselling, and help with emotional health. For some people, practical strategies such as limiting access to gambling platforms, blocking tools, or support networks help. Recovery often happens gradually — and improvement is realistic with the right support.
If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe
Seek urgent help if gambling distress leads to thoughts of self-harm, intense emotional distress, or crisis. Immediate crisis services and emergency support are available and important.
Gambling addiction is treatable. You do not have to face it alone — help, dignity, and recovery-focused care are available.
This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.