If you’re wondering how you can quit gambling, you’re not alone in this struggle. Gambling addiction affects thousands of people in the UK, causing serious harm to mental health, relationships, and financial stability.
The good news is that recovery is possible with the proper support and strategies. Young adults and people over 40 can overcome gambling addiction with the right plan, commitment, and support.
This guide offers practical steps to help you stop gambling, along with support services and tools available in the UK to help you take back control of your life.
How Can I Quit Gambling? At a Glance
Breaking free from gambling requires a clear plan and the right support system to help you through the recovery process.
- Use GAMSTOP and blocking software to limit access to gambling sites.
- Reach out to GamCare or NHS services for professional support.
- Build a support network by talking to friends, family, or joining a group.
- Ask someone you trust to help manage your finances and spending.
- Fill your time with hobbies, exercise, or social activities you enjoy.
What Is a Gambling Disorder?
Gambling disorder is a mental health condition where a person struggles to control the urge to gamble, even when it leads to harmful consequences.
This can include losing significant amounts of money, damaging essential relationships, or facing problems at work and home.
According to the UKGC 2024 Report, 48 percent of people in the United Kingdom gamble, which is approximately 25.75 million. This shows the severity of people involved in gambling activities.
This can ultimately lead to a gambling disorder that affects the brain’s system, making gambling feel rewarding even when it causes harm.
Breaking this cycle can be challenging without proper help and support. It’s important to understand that a gambling disorder is a medical condition, not a personal weakness or failure.
Did you know?
Gambling addiction in the UK affects 2.5% of adults, or about 1.3 million people, facing severe harm, says the Gambling Commission.
How Long Does It Take To Quit Gambling?
Recovery from gambling addiction varies for each person, but most people see positive changes within the first few months of treatment.
The initial withdrawal period typically lasts 2-4 weeks, during which cravings may feel intense.
Building new habits and coping strategies usually takes 3-6 months with consistent effort and support.
Long-term recovery is an ongoing process that requires continuous commitment, but many people successfully maintain a gambling-free lifestyle for years with the right tools and mindset.
How To Block Gambling Websites?
Blocking gambling websites is an effective way to reduce temptation and protect yourself from online betting.
These ways will work best to block Gambling websites:
- Install Blocking Apps
Apps like Gamban and BetBlocker can be installed on your devices to block gambling content across phones, tablets, and computers.
- Block Gambling Messages and Calls
Contact your mobile provider to stop gambling-related text messages and calls that may trigger urges to gamble.
- Restrict Gambling Transactions
Ask your bank to block any gambling-related transactions on your accounts to prevent unauthorized spending.
Additionally, learn to block gambling sites on different devices and browsers. This way, you can focus more on yourself and increase productivity.
UK Tools and Resources to Help You Stop Gambling
Firstly, remember that gambling is not a sin, but addiction is. To avoid that, the UK offers several specialized services designed to help people overcome gambling addiction and rebuild their lives.
- GAMSTOP
This free national self-exclusion scheme blocks access to all UK-licensed gambling websites and apps.
Registration for GamStop takes just 5 minutes online, and you can choose exclusion periods from 6 months to 5 years.
The service covers over 100 gambling operators and prevents you from creating new accounts during your exclusion period.
- National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133)
Available 24/7, the National Gambling Helpline offers immediate support when you need it most.
Trained advisors provide emotional support, practical guidance, and can connect you with local treatment services. All calls are confidential and won’t appear on your phone bill.
- NHS Gambling Addiction Services
You can take the help of specialists; NHS gambling addiction services are available across the UK. These services offer psychological therapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has proven effective for gambling addiction.
Treatment is free and designed to address both the gambling behavior and underlying mental health issues.
The treatment is private and based on your needs, and you can access it by speaking to your GP or referring yourself directly.
- Gamban App
One of the most effective tools for blocking gambling access is the Gamban app, which enables you to block gambling websites and apps across all your devices.
Once installed, it works quietly in the background, preventing access even when the urge to gamble is strong.
Gamban is easy to set up, works on phones, tablets, and computers, and is recommended by many gambling support organisations in the UK. It’s beneficial as part of a broader recovery strategy.
Gamban offers features like the Money Saved Tracker and Time Saved Tracker, allowing users to monitor their progress by tracking the money and time saved since installing the app.
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Conclusion: You Can Quit Gambling With The Help Of Proper Resources
Quitting gambling is challenging, but thousands of people in the UK successfully break free from addiction every year with proper support and determination.
Remember that recovery is a process, not a single event, and setbacks don’t mean failure.
The tools and resources available in the UK are created to help you succeed, from immediate blocking software to long-term therapy options.
Take the first step today by contacting help, whether that’s registering with GAMSTOP, calling the National Gambling Helpline, or speaking to your GP about treatment options.
FAQs
Anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and sleep issues are common at first but usually ease within a few weeks.
When stressed or bored, distract yourself by walking, deep breathing, calling a friend, doing hobbies, exercising, or practicing mindfulness to stay calm.
You’re not required to, but it might help if your workplace offers confidential support or counselling.
Create a budget, avoid credit use, and consider getting help from a debt advisor or a trusted person.
