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SUPPORT

Family & Friends

For every person who gambles, there are between 6-10 people also affected.

At Breakeven we understand how difficult it is for the partner, family member or friend of the person who gambles. It can cause considerable strain on a relationship and can impact the whole household and extended family if someone’s gambling is out of control.

If Friends and Family are asking ’how can I help?’ or experiencing impacts because of the behaviour of someone who gambles, it is important for them to know that we are here for them, too; they can also have counselling support from us.

Even if the person with a gambling dependancy is not ready to engage with us, we will work with the family member or friend, helping them understand and learn to cope with the impacts of their experience.

Feel free to give our telephone number or website details and encourage them to contact us.

Affected by someone else's gambling? Take our Self Assessment tool for help today

Helping someone who gambles

Take care of yourself
While learning about someone’s gambling related harm, you may experience difficult emotions, and not know how to help them, or yourself. It’s completely normal to feel this way, so please know that you’re not alone. There are many support services available to help you and the person who gambles. You can only take care of someone else when you’re looking after yourself too.
Understanding gambling harms
Before you talk to someone about their gambling, try to understand what they’ve been exposed to, and the risks associated with gambling that have led them to this point.
Talk to them
Having a conversation with someone is a great starting point to help them with their gambling
Listen to them
Be patient and listen carefully to what they have to say, without being judgemental. Try not to interrupt them, as this might stop them from wanting to open up and could lead to a misunderstanding.
Get support for yourself
Do not feel guilty if you’re going through difficult thoughts or feelings while supporting others through their journey. Your life has also been impacted, so it can help to talk to someone you trust. You’re not alone.
Celebrate progress
Celebrating the progress someone is making to reduce or stop gambling is an important step for their recovery. If someone is doing well with reducing or stopping their gambling, make sure you tell them. This can help them to recognise the positive impact of their progress.
Listen to the stories of Affected Others
HOW WE CAN HELP
At Breakeven our trained specialists can help you on your way to recovery.
WE CAN HELP
Take a positive step forward and contact us now.