HOW TO HELP & SUPPORT A GAMBLING ADDICT

Speak to them

Gambling addiction  can be an extremely lonely addiction to battle through.  If you have someone close to you who is dealing with a gambling problem then speak to them without judging them. Make them feel like speaking to you is a safe space.

Avoid confrontation / being angry with them

If somebody suffers a relapse then do not begin to get angry with them. This could potentially cause the person to go back gambling again. Instead, try and talk to them about how they're feeling, how did the relapse happen, when did it happen and then work out a plan to prevent the same thing happening again.

Patience

Overcoming an addiction is going to take time and there will be bumps along the road. But, its about helping the gambler stay on the right path and also guiding them back in the right direction if they do relapse.

Introduce activities to replace gambling

A gambling addict can go from gambling 24/7 to then starting their recovery where they aren't allowed to gamble at all. Recovery is hard and people can suffer from withdrawal symptoms. If activities are planned then it can definitely help the gambler battle through any withdrawal symptoms they may experience. 

Visit support groups

There are support groups out there for parents/partners/friends who have a loved one who has a gambling problem. These groups can provide help and advice on how they can help their loved one.