Getting support with gambling debt

If gambling has left you in debt, it can be tricky to think about or face up to – but you don’t have to go through it alone! This guide is here to walk you through all of the options available, supporting you to take back control of your money and your future.

We’ll walk through practical steps to help reduce gambling-related debt, give you actionable advice on dealing with the stress, and signpost you to services who will support you without judgement.

In this guide:

• Understanding gambling debt
• Steps to take if you’re facing gambling debt
• Where to get gambling support
• Managing the emotional and mental side of gambling debt
• Additional support: You’re not alone

Understanding gambling debt

Gambling debt can creep up quietly. What starts as the occasional bet can, for some people, become a habit that’s hard to control. Particularly if you start to chase losses, convinced that your luck is about to turn. If you're finding it difficult to stop or noticing that your spending is harming your finances, health or relationships – you’re not alone. There’s support out there that can make a real difference.

The impact of gambling on your finances can be serious, and may lead to:

• Missed bills and rising debts
• Difficulty securing credit due to your payment history
• Mental health struggles such as anxiety, guilt, and stress

Recognising there’s a problem is a huge first step – and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not failure.

Steps to take if you’re facing gambling debt

Addressing gambling debt can feel overwhelming but breaking it into small steps can help make it more manageable. Here’s where to start:

1. Be honest with yourself

Admitting that gambling is causing harm is tough, but it’s the start of real change. You don’t have to share this with anyone else straight away – this step is just for you.

2. Track your spending

Understanding your cash flow can help you see where your money is going and where small but significant changes can be made. Our guide to personal cash flow budgeting can help you get started.

3. Prioritise essentials

Focus on covering your rent, bills, food, and transport costs first. Use what’s left to start tackling debts. Even small repayments can make a difference.

4. Freeze gambling accounts

Consider self-exclusion tools like GAMSTOP or ask your bank to block gambling transactions. You can also install blocking software like Gamban to limit access to gambling sites.

5. Talk to someone

There’s power in talking. Reach out to a debt adviser, GP, or a specialist gambling addiction support service for free, confidential advice. If you have someone you can trust, confiding in a friend or family member can also help to lift some of the pressure. Finding out how to stop gambling and save money isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but it’s a problem that’s better shared.

Where to get gambling support

You don’t need to do this all by yourself. These organisations offer free, confidential help with gambling debt and are there to listen without judgement:

• GambleAware: Offers practical tools and support to help stop gambling.
• GamCare: Provides a 24/7 helpline, online chat and support groups.
• StepChange: Specialist help for dealing with debt, including debt from gambling.
• Citizens Advice: Guidance on financial worries and legal rights.
• MoneyHelper: Advice on budgeting, managing debt and financial wellbeing.
• National Debtline: Offering independent advice and gambling debt help.

We’ve also created a helpful resource that lists a range of third-party help organisations and charities with more links and tools that you may find useful.

Managing the emotional and mental side of gambling debt

Gambling debt doesn’t just impact your bank balance. It can also take a toll on your wellbeing, confidence, and mental health. For many people, gambling may be linked to feelings of shame, secrecy, and anxiety. And when money is tight, those emotions can become even harder to manage.

Here are some important things to keep in mind as you work through this:

You're not alone – and you're not to blame

Problem gambling often starts as a coping mechanism, a distraction or a way to try and fix money worries. You’re not weak or irresponsible – gambling is designed to be addictive, with apps and machines built to keep you playing. It’s a complex problem, and blaming yourself won’t help. Seeking support is the first and most powerful step.

It's okay to ask for mental health support

If you're feeling anxious, depressed or hopeless because of your gambling debts, it’s important to reach out for mental health support as well. You can speak to your GP or contact one of the following organisations for free:

• Mind: A national mental health charity offering emotional support and advice.
• Samaritans: Available 24/7 if you need someone to talk to. Call 116 123 for free.
• NHS Talking Therapies: Free local services to help with anxiety, depression or stress.

Talk to someone you trust

You don’t have to do everything by yourself. If you can, speak to a friend, partner or family member. Just saying, “I’m struggling and trying to make a change,” can be a huge weight off your shoulders, opening the door to getting support, not judgement.

Protect your finances

Once you’re working on recovery, practical changes can help stop gambling getting in your way again:

• Ask your bank about gambling blocks or transaction limits.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or access to credit if it’s a trigger.
• Involve a trusted friend or partner in big spending decisions.

Over time, these steps can really help rebuild your confidence and your financial stability.

Additional support: You’re not alone

If gambling debt is affecting your life, it’s time to take back control. With small steps, the right support and some breathing space, things can get better. There’s light at the end of the tunnel.

Remember:

• You’re not alone – gambling debt is more common than many realise.
• Support is available, free of charge and completely confidential.
• Create a clear plan and stick to it – even tiny progress is progress. Small steps are better than no steps at all
• Don’t borrow more to gamble – but short-term help may support day-to-day needs.

For more guidance on debt solutions and strategies, explore our guides on how to use the debt snowball method, debt management plans and loans, and how to ask for breathing space with debt.