Asking for help with gambling can feel exposing. You may be worried about debt, ashamed of secrecy or afraid of how a partner will react. You may also be unsure whether your gambling is “serious enough” to contact a service.
You do not need to reach a crisis or have everything resolved before speaking to someone.
Start with one honest description
You do not need to prepare a perfect account. A first conversation can begin with a simple sentence such as: “I am gambling more than I intend to and I cannot seem to stop,” or “Gambling is affecting my finances and relationship.”
A therapist or support worker can then help you organise what has been happening.
Confidential specialist therapy
Specialist gambling therapy can help you understand triggers, urges, chasing losses, emotional regulation, financial consequences and relationship patterns. Support may be individual, online or in person. Partners and couples may also need their own space to understand the impact and decide what happens next.
Free national gambling support
GamblingCare provides information and referral support throughout Ireland. Its national helpline, 1800 936 725, is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It can help people affected by their own gambling and family members affected by someone else’s gambling.
Peer and community support
Some people benefit from meeting others who understand the experience. Gamblers Anonymous Ireland provides peer meetings, while GamblingCare lists in-person, online, group and residential services around Ireland.
Support with debt and money
Stopping gambling and addressing debt are related but separate tasks. Do not gamble to solve a debt problem. MABS offers free, independent and confidential budgeting and debt advice. A money adviser can help you understand priority bills, creditors and realistic next steps.
Speak to your GP when mental health is affected
Gambling harm can occur alongside anxiety, depression, poor sleep, alcohol use or suicidal thoughts. A GP can help assess your mental health and connect you with appropriate services. If you feel at immediate risk, call 112 or 999 or attend the nearest emergency department.
What to do before your first appointment
- Write down the forms of gambling you use and when you last gambled.
- List debts, missed bills and money owed without trying to make the figures look better.
- Note previous attempts to stop and what triggered a return.
- Bring any questions you have about confidentiality, fees or involving a partner.
The purpose is not to judge you. It is to understand the pattern and begin building safety.
