If it is ignored or unaddressed it has the potential to cause serious damage not only to an individual but also to the well- being of loved ones.

The opportunities for gambling have increased hugely with the availability of on-line/internet/phone platforms as well as the bookmaker outlets. Notice the amount of adverts during TV sports programmes encouraging viewers to gamble using the apps on their phones. None of this takes responsibility for the devastation caused by gambling.

Signs of Gambling Addiction

• Someone being secretive – a person caught up in gambling becomes deceptive about where they have been and what they have been doing, working hard to hide evidence of their gambling such as bank statements.
• Sudden changes in mood – family and close friends notice how a person with gambling addiction gets easily irritated, unable to focus on normal responsibilities.
• Unexplained disappearances – a gambler can suddenly disappear from the family home or from work and gets lost in the activity of gambling.
• Money difficulties – bills not being paid and debts running up and loans being taken out.