Gambling doesn’t just affect the person who gambles. Partners, children, siblings, parents, friends and others also feel the impact.
If your life is disrupted by a family member or friend who gambles, you might feel like you’re on edge all the time.
That’s not a healthy way to live. It can impact your physical and mental health and prevent you from dealing with your situation.
At this time, it’s important to look after yourself and to know where to get support if you need it.
You have the right to feel safe and emotionally and financially secure, and your health and wellbeing is just as important as the person you’re caring for. When you get help to cope with the situation, you are better equipped to keep yourself and your family safe.
If children are involved, you should also talk to them, being honest and open about the gambling problem and letting them know they are not responsible. They will be relieved you are taking steps to get help. Counselling is also available to children to talk about their feelings and better understand gambling addiction and harm.
You don’t need to suffer in silence. Help and support is available for you at Know your help options.