Help for family and friends affected by gambling

Conversation starters, boundaries and support when someone close to you has gambling problems.

Your wellbeing matters too

Worry, anger and uncertainty can affect people close to someone who gambles. You do not have to wait for the person to seek treatment before you get support yourself.

Have a specific conversation

Choose a calm, private moment. Describe the changes you have noticed and how they affect you. Offer a concrete action, such as sitting with the person while they contact a gambling service. Avoid trying to resolve every issue in one conversation.

Protect finances and boundaries

Protect your own accounts and essential shared spending. Avoid lending money for gambling or covering losses in secret. If you agree to help with money, make the arrangement voluntary and specific and use appropriate bank permissions. Do not share passwords or assume responsibility for monitoring everything. Get independent financial or debt advice when needed.

A sentence you can use

“I care about you and want to support change. I can help you contact a service. I cannot fund gambling or keep its impact hidden.”

Get your own support

Denmark’s StopSpillet and Great Britain’s GamCare support people affected by someone else’s gambling. Ask about children, stress, relationships and money. If there is coercion or violence, prioritise safety and specialist support.

Listen to a family perspective

Nicola Jaques · The Recovery Toolkit, episode 38 discusses the effects on a partner and children and seeking support for the family.

Sources and support

GamCare’s support for affected others · StopSpillet

Choose a next step

Original educational summary by Beyond Last Bet. Sources checked 22 October 2026. This independent project is not a treatment provider; content has not received independent clinical review. Seek individual advice from a qualified professional.