Home : What Is Problem Gambling? : Support
for Family and Friends : How can you help yourself?
How can you help yourself?
The family and friends of problem gamblers can
also feel a sense of guilt, shame and helplessness because they care for a
problem gambler. They can also feel frustrated, isolated and angry about gambling
and the impact it is having.
Gambler’s Help are there to assist family members and friends as well
as the person with the gambling problem. Find out about counselling and support
services in your local area or to call and speak to someone about the problems
you are having as a result of gambling.
If the problem is directly affecting you, it’s important to:
Protect your financial security
- Take control of the family finances
- Limit the gambler's access to cash and credit
- Create a budget and allow each member of the family some spending money
- Avoid inheriting or taking on the gambler's debt
- Get professional advice
- Don't sign anything you don't understand especially if you think it commits you to a financial liability
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Protect your physical and emotional wellbeing
- Your safety is the most important priority; you do not have to tolerate abusive behaviour
- You are not to blame for the gambler's behaviour or their gambling problem
- You may need to distance yourself both physically and emotionally from the problem gambler
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Give yourself time-out from the problem
- Dealing with someone's gambling problem can at times lead to resentment, anger and take away from the time you have for yourself
- If this happens, it could mean you are too absorbed in the problem and you might need some time-out
- Remember to take some time for yourself, where you can, try and leave behind the thoughts, actions, and emotions associated with the gambling
- Get involved in activities you enjoy, like spending time with friends, joining an activity group or going to the gym.
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