Understanding the scale of gambling harm is a complex issue and requires a comprehensive approach to mitigate the adverse impacts on the health and wellbeing of individuals, families, communities and society in general.
Gambling is increasingly normalised in our society, and for some it can be an enjoyable activity. However, for many others the harm it causes can be hidden and often overlooked. In recent years, concern about the harms associated with gambling nationally have increased, with an estimated 3.8% of the population classified as gambling at ‘elevated risk’, whilst 0.5% of the population reached the threshold to be considered experiencing ‘problem gambling’.
Recent data published through the Office of Health and Disparities (OHID) estimates that Wolverhampton has approximately 8,570 people in need of some form of treatment and support linked to gambling harm. Treatment and support options can range from simple, brief advice to more intensive treatment options including psychological therapy and residential rehab where appropriate.
The data also estimates there are as many as 5,420 children living in households with adults who require some form of treatment, raising concerns regarding the potential for intergenerational impact. These figures sit within a backdrop of an overall need for treatment and support for England being estimated at approximately 1.5 million people.
Free and confidential advice and support is available across the West Midlands for people who gamble, people who are worried about someone else’s gambling, or for people recovering from gambling previously.
Signs and symptoms gambling may be impacting you
Gambling at any level can cause harm. Knowing what to look out for can be a helpful first step to identify gambling harms. Here are just a few of the signs which could indicate there’s a problem:
- Lack of sleep
- Feeling stressed, anxious and irritable a lot of the time
- Not being able to stop gambling or thinking about gambling, despite wanting to
- Not able to pay attention to people you care about
- Feeling generally depressed
- Feeling suicidal or thinking about being absent from the world
- Constantly needing to check devices
- Worrying about money and/or debt
If you think any of these things are happening, you might benefit from some extra help or simply just talking to somebody about your concerns.
Support
NHS West Midlands Gambling Service
If you think gambling could be affecting you, there are specific gambling harm clinics which can provide help. They’re easy to access and confidential. The team will provide you with information and support at every step.
The gambling harms clinics offer specialist services that provide therapy and recovery support to people affected by gambling addiction. Some, including the NHS Northern Gambling Service, also support those close to people with a gambling addiction, such as family, partners, and carers.
National Gambling Support Network and Helpline
The National Gambling Helpline (run by GamCare) provides free and confidential advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can speak to an advisor or refer yourself to the National Gambling Helpline and Support Network by contacting 0808 8020 133.
Aquarius Gambling Service
Providing support, information and advice across the Midlands for anyone who maybe experiencing gambling problems, as well as to family members and friends affected by someone else’s gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others do the same
The National Centre for Gaming Disorders
Like most activities, gaming can be a great way to relax, destress and socialise. However, for a minority of people excessive gaming can have a negative impact both on them and those around them.
The service offers assessment and therapeutic based treatment with CBT sessions focused on controlled levels of gaming and increasing other activities for those aged 13+ in England. It can also offer parents and family members educational workshops.