How to Get Help for a Gambling Problem

Reaching out is the single most effective thing you can do — and it’s easier than it feels. You don’t need to have it all figured out, and you don’t need to be certain you have a “real” problem. Here are the established, mostly-free ways people get help. We’ll point you to each real service; we don’t run any of them ourselves.

1. Talk to the national helpline

The National Problem Gambling Helpline, 1-800-GAMBLER, is the best first call. It’s free, confidential, and staffed 24/7 by trained specialists who can listen, help you understand your options, and connect you to local resources. You can call, text, or chat online, in English or Spanish. Many people call simply to talk — it doesn’t commit you to anything.

If gambling has led to thoughts of suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline right away by calling or texting 988.

2. Get professional treatment

Counseling genuinely works for gambling. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in particular has strong evidence behind it, and treatment can be one-on-one, in groups, outpatient, or (less often) residential. Cost and insurance vary, and the helpline can point you to affordable options. See our guide to gambling addiction treatment, or search SAMHSA’s official treatment locator.

3. Join a support group

Gamblers Anonymous is a free fellowship of people who help each other stop gambling, with in-person and online meetings across the country. Being around others who truly understand can make a real difference. For family members, Gam-Anon offers the same kind of support.

4. Put barriers in place

Practical barriers buy you time when urges hit. Self-exclusion lets you formally ban yourself from casinos and gambling sites, and blocking software shuts off access on your devices. These steps are simple, powerful, and often overlooked.

5. Deal with the money worries

Financial stress can drive the urge to “win it back.” Getting a clear, honest handle on your finances — and, if needed, help with debt — removes fuel from the fire. See help with gambling debt.

You don’t have to wait until it’s “bad enough”

The earlier you reach out, the easier recovery tends to be. If you take one step today, make it a call or text to 1-800-GAMBLER.

Frequently asked questions

Is calling 1-800-GAMBLER really free and confidential?

Yes. The National Problem Gambling Helpline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 by call, text, and chat, in English and Spanish. You don’t have to give your name.

Does treatment for gambling actually work?

Yes. Approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy have solid evidence, and many people recover fully. Treatment often also addresses stress, anxiety, or depression that can accompany a gambling problem.

How much does treatment cost?

It varies. Some support (helplines, Gamblers Anonymous, many state programs) is free. Counseling may be covered by insurance or offered on a sliding scale. The helpline can point you to affordable local options.

What if I’m not ready to stop completely?

That’s common, and you can still get help. Talking to the helpline or a counselor without any commitment is a valid first step. Support meets you where you are.

Can I get help for someone else?

Yes. You can call the helpline for advice about a loved one, and Gam-Anon supports families directly. Our family guide is a good place to start.