How to recognise a betting addiction

Here are the critical moments when professional help should be considered:

• Loss of control: If you are no longer in control of your gambling and the time and money you invest in it, it's time to seek help.
• Debt and financial problems: Running into debt or other financial problems because of your gaming is a clear indicator of the need for treatment.
• Neglect: When gaming starts to take priority over work, school or family responsibilities, it's important to intervene.
• Isolation and loss of interest: If you withdraw from friends and family or lose interest in past hobbies because of gaming, you should consider seeking help.
• Continuing despite negative consequences: If you are continuing to play despite the obvious negative effects on your health, relationships or financial situation, it is time to make a change.

Gambling questionnaires

Are you wondering if your gambling goes beyond healthy limits and can become an addiction? Do you want to find out if your gambling behaviour may be having a negative impact on your life or the lives of your loved ones? Try the simple Lie/Bet questionnaires or the self-assessment questionnaire.

Lie/Bet Questionnaire

• Have you ever felt the need to bet more and more money?
• Have you ever lied to people who are important to you about how long you have played and how much you have lost?

If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you probably have a gambling problem.

Self-evaluation questionnaire

Please answer the following questions: NEVER - SOMETIMES - VERY OFTEN

• Have you ever gambled more than you could afford to gamble?
• Have you needed to play with more and more money or more and more often to get the thrill you wanted?
• Did you come back the next day to win back the money you lost?
• Have other people ever criticized your playing or told you that you had a problem with your playing, whether it was true or not?
• Has gambling caused you or your family any financial problems?
• Have you ever felt guilty about your gambling or the consequences of your gambling?
• Have you borrowed money or sold any possessions or used money intended for other purposes to raise money to play?

If you have answered VERY OFTEN at least 1 time or AT LEAST 3 times, there are clear signs that gaming is beginning or has begun to take over your life. (Source Lending Hands o.p.s. - Information brochure for helping professionals - about problem gambling and the Law 186/2016 on Gambling.)

Gambling treatment and therapy options for addicted gamblers

Fortunately, there are a number of treatment programs and therapies that can help people with gambling addiction. Here are some of the options available to find help with gambling addiction and gambling treatment.

Helpline for gamblers and their loved ones: 777 477 877

The helpline offers immediate, accessible and anonymous support to anyone seeking help or advice on problem gambling.

Helpline specialists can offer useful information about gambling addiction, recommend specific steps to address the problem and refer callers to specialist therapeutic services and support groups in their local area.

This service can be the first step towards recovery and provide further direction in the process of treating gambling addiction.

Group chats for gamblers

Group chats offer an online support option for people addicted to gambling as well as their families and loved ones. In an anonymous online environment, you can communicate with therapists in real time.

These anonymous chat platforms allow participants to share their experiences, successes and struggles without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. Group chats can be especially beneficial for those who feel isolated or for those seeking the first step toward recovery. Visit the group chats on the Recruit Course platform.

Self-help groups for gambling addicts

Self-help groups for compulsive gamblers, such as Gamblers Anonymous, offer structured meetings for individuals struggling with gambling. These groups operate on the principle of mutual support and sharing of experiences. Participants learn from others how to manage their addiction while providing support to newcomers. This type of therapy emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, acceptance of responsibility and personal growth.

Addiction clinics

Addiction clinics offer professional help and care to people with various forms of addiction, including gambling addiction. These services offer a comprehensive assessment of the problem, individual or group therapy, drug therapy and a long-term treatment plan.

At an addiction clinic, addicted gamblers can access professional counselling, diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and other support services, and can begin outpatient gambling treatment.

Assistance in community counselling centres and non-profit organisations

Citizen counselling centres and non-profit organisations offer a wide range of services for people with gambling addiction and their families. These services address prevention and treatment of gambling and may include legal counseling, financial planning, family therapy, and educational programs about gambling and addiction.

The goal is to provide the support and resources needed to overcome addiction and restore functioning in personal and professional life. On the Responsible Gambling page, you will find a clear map of addiction services to help you find help near you.

Individual psychotherapy

Individual psychotherapy allows you to work on your addiction in a private and supportive environment. A therapist can help identify triggers of addiction, develop strategies to manage cravings for gambling, and support the recovery process.

The therapist can use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, to help the client manage triggers, change unhealthy behaviors, and build a more fulfilling life.

Psychiatric hospitals

If gambling addiction is associated with other psychological problems or if other forms of treatment are unsuccessful, residential treatment in a psychiatric hospital may be the best solution for some individuals.

These institutions provide more intensive therapeutic care in a controlled environment where clients can fully focus on their recovery without outside distractions and completely remove themselves from the environment that supports gambling. Programmes usually include a combination of individual and group therapy, educational seminars and other supportive activities.

It is important that those suffering from gambling addiction and their loved ones know that help is available and that the first step to recovery is to admit the problem and seek support.

A summary of gambling treatment options

• Helpline for gamblers and their loved ones: 777 477 877

• Group chats

• Self-help group for compulsive gamblers

• Addiction Outpatient Clinics

• Assistance at civic counseling centers and other non-profit organizations

• Individual psychotherapy

• Psychiatric hospitals

If you or a loved one is facing a gambling addiction, it is important to remember that help is available and recovery is possible. The first step is acknowledging the problem and being willing to seek help. Don't be afraid to reach out to a professional who can help you find the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation. Remember that you are not alone and that the first step to recovery is often the hardest, but also the most important.