Gambling Awarness
What is Problem Gambling
Problem gambling is the urge to keep gambling despite wanting to stop and despite the harm
it causes. It can lead to serious financial difficulties for the person and their loved ones, as
well as emotional distress, depression, and anxiety.
There are many different terms used to describe people who struggle with gambling.
However, not everyone who gambles excessively experiences the same challenges. People
affected by gambling problems come from all age groups, income levels, cultures, and
professions. For some, gambling becomes a problem suddenly; for others, it develops
gradually over many years.
The term problem gambling generally refers to any pattern of gambling behaviour that
disrupts or damages a person’s life.
The amount you can safely spend on gambling depends on your own circumstances —
specifically, what you can afford to lose without it affecting essential expenses. For some
people, even a few euro spent on gambling can mean going without weekly necessities.
What Can I Say to Someone Whose Gambling Is Causing a Problem?
Talking about problem gambling can be difficult but having an open and honest conversation
is an important first step. The person needs to understand how their gambling is affecting you
and those around them. This can also be an opportunity to show your support and willingness
to help them address the issue.
Avoid making assumptions or accusations. Focus instead on what you’ve personally
observed. Encourage them to reflect on the consequences of their behaviour and how it
impacts others. Take time to think about what you want to say — writing down your thoughts
and feelings beforehand can help you stay calm and clear during the conversation.
If you’re unsure how to approach the topic, consider speaking with a qualified counsellor or
calling a problem gambling helpline for advice. They can guide you on how to start the
conversation in a supportive and constructive way.
What supports currently exist in Ireland
Here are some of the services and supports available:
| Service | What they do / how they help |
| GamblingCare.ie | Advice, advocacy, referrals. Counselling (online and in-person), support groups, selfhelp tools. |
| Extern Problem Gambling | Free counselling: online programme (“Stop Gambling App”); group support; referral to residential units. |
| Rutland Centre’s Gambling & Gaming Specific Outpatient Programme (HSE-supported) | A 10-week group + 1-to-1 counselling + aftercare for people over 18. |
| Dunlewey Addiction Services | Ireland-wide problem gambling counselling, free of charge, 6-12 one-to-one sessions, helpline. |
| South East Gambling Addiction Support Service (SEGAS) | Free one-to-one online video sessions, confidential, with addiction specialists, for people in the Southeast region. |
| Family Resource Centres | They often are community-based and provide referrals and counselling through the GamblingCare network. |
| Helplines / Peer Support | National helplines, Gamblers Anonymous Ireland, family-support services, etc. |
What supports currently exist in the Defence Forces.
| Personnel Support Services (PSS)- | One of the most important people you can meet at your local barracks or base is the Personnel Support Service (PSS) Team. There will be at least one of these support staff in each Defence Forces location, who can assist you. The PSS consists of a combination of Personnel Support Officers & Social Workers available in all Military locations. |
| Chaplaincy Service | Highly trained chaplains nationwide. |
| Medical Aid Post | The medical aid post is also at your service, with doctors and medical professionals available around the clock to provide care and advice. |
| Colleagues | Gambling issues can affect anyone, and it’s often hard to speak up. But you don’t have to face it alone. Sometimes, reaching out to a colleague or a friend you trust can be the first step to getting help. |
