Problem gambling doesn’t just affect the gambler—it touches everyone around them. If you’re a spouse, partner, sibling, parent, or friend, this page is for you. You may feel confused, angry, or powerless. We’re here to provide clarity, support, and a path forward.
Problem gambling doesn’t just affect the gambler—it touches everyone around them. If you’re a spouse, partner, sibling, parent, or friend, this page is for you. You may feel confused, angry, or powerless. We’re here to provide clarity, support, and a path forward.
Understanding Problem Gambling
Problem gambling is a behavioral addiction that can take a serious toll on a person’s finances, emotions, and relationships. It’s not just about poor choices—it’s often a compulsive need to gamble, even when it causes harm.
What You Might Notice:
- Unexplained debt or missing money
- Lying or secretive behavior
- Mood swings or anxiety related to money
- More time spent gambling than with family
Emotional Impact on Families
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. Living with or loving someone who has a gambling problem can take a real toll on your emotional and financial well-being. You might be dealing with:
- Feelings of betrayal or mistrust
- Constant stress and anxiety
- Financial instability
- Tension or conflict at home
You may be quietly carrying the emotional weight of someone else’s choices—but you don’t have to carry it alone. Your well-being matters, too.
What You Can Do
You can’t make someone stop gambling—but you can protect yourself and encourage change in healthy, constructive ways.
Healthy Steps to Take:
- Speak calmly and avoid blaming language.
- Set clear financial boundaries, like separate accounts.
- Encourage treatment as support, not punishment.
- Don’t blame them. Gambling changes brain pathways and behavior.
- Don’t wait for a crisis. Reach out as soon as things feel off.
- Avoid threats. We’ll help you set healthy boundaries.
- Talk about money—it’s tough, but we can support you.
- Encourage support, don’t force it. Offering a coaching session is a smart start.
What Not to Do
Trying to “fix” things alone can backfire. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t lend money to cover debts
- Don’t lie or cover up their behavior
- Don’t ignore the problem, it usually worsens without help
- Don’t blame yourself—this is not your fault
Setting boundaries isn’t about punishment, it’s about protecting your mental and emotional health.
Getting Support for Yourself
Your mental health matters. Many family members suffer in silence, but you deserve care too.
Ways to Take Care of Yourself:
- Talk to a therapist or support group
- Confide in a trusted friend or mentor
- Make time for activities that bring peace and joy
- Learn more about the cycle of addiction to understand it’s not personal
- Help is not just for the gambler—it’s for you too.
When someone you love is struggling with gambling, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or lost. But your well-being matters, too. Talk to a family support coach and get tools, guidance, and care tailored to your experience.
