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Understanding Gambling Harm

Learning why gambling can become difficult to control is an important step towards recovery.

Why Gambling Can Become Difficult to Control

Gambling can affect the brain in ways that make it increasingly difficult to stop, even when you want to. This isn't about willpower or character—it's about how gambling activities can change the way our brains respond to risk and reward.

What Happens in the Brain

When we gamble, the brain releases dopamine—a chemical associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain can become accustomed to these dopamine surges, requiring more gambling activity to achieve the same feeling.

This isn't weakness—it's a neurological response that can happen to anyone. Understanding this can help remove shame and open the door to effective treatment.

Common Patterns

  • Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble in an attempt to recover money that has been lost.
  • Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement.
  • Preoccupation: Spending significant time thinking about gambling or planning gambling sessions.
  • Using gambling to cope: Turning to gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions.
  • Concealment: Hiding gambling behaviour or its consequences from loved ones.

Gambling Harm is Not a Moral Failure

Many people feel intense shame about their gambling. It's important to understand that gambling harm can affect anyone, regardless of their intelligence, background, or strength of character.

Recognising that you need support and reaching out for help is a sign of strength and self-awareness. Recovery is possible, and you deserve compassionate support on your journey.

Recognising the Impact

Personal Impact

  • Financial difficulties and debt
  • Anxiety, depression, and emotional distress
  • Sleep problems and physical health issues
  • Impact on work and career
  • Loss of self-esteem and confidence

Impact on Relationships

  • Strain on partners and family relationships
  • Erosion of trust with loved ones
  • Social isolation and withdrawal
  • Impact on children and family stability
  • Difficulty maintaining friendships

Recovery is Possible

Understanding gambling harm is the first step. Speak to one of our qualified therapists today.

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