Gambling support

Supporting our community

These resources are for anyone:

• Who wants to learn more about how problem gambling or gambling disorders can affect their mind and behaviour
• Who may be thinking about engaging in gambling activities
• Who is in search of resources on how to change their relationship with gambling
• Who cares for someone affected by problem gambling or a gambling disorder
• Who is looking for a supportive community where they can share their experiences
• Who wants to engage in a supportive dialogue on the harms associated with problem gambling or gambling disorders

About gambling

Gambling is the act of betting money, including digital currencies, or something of monetary value on events with uncertain outcomes and an element of chance, for financial gain. There are various forms of gambling, such as mahjong, casino games, and lotteries. While gambling is legally considered a form of entertainment in many countries around the world, it carries the potential for serious financial loss or ruin, and can lead to mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and problems associated with gambling disorders, especially among younger players.

Symptoms of problem gambling and gambling disorders

Identifying if someone is struggling with problem gambling or a gambling disorder can be challenging, as there are few visible symptoms that present themselves. Signs that may suggest someone might be struggling with problem gambling include:

• Becoming dependent on gambling
• Constantly thinking about gambling or betting, ways to win or how to deal with debts
• Not sharing gambling experiences or financial losses with a partner or friends
• Failing to recognise the negative effects on themselves or their loved ones
• Gambling beyond their financial means, including exceeding self-imposed budgets, or betting with non-disposable income
• Losing control over gambling or betting activities
• Being subjected to severe financial and psychological harms
• Placing increasingly higher bets or stakes
• Finding new sources of money to support gambling habits
• Gambling becomes compulsive and is no longer done just for fun and entertainment
• Neglecting social contacts with partners, friends, or family
• Neglecting responsibilities such as school or work

How can I help someone struggling with problem gambling or a gambling disorder?

Open conversation

Have an open conversation about problem gambling

Wholesome activities

Introduce wholesome activities to replace gambling

Support groups

Suggest support groups and recommend professional help

How to get support?

Want to talk to someone? There is support available for people looking for help. If you or someone you know is looking for resources, here are some local helplines for support and recovery in your region:

How can I engage with the RecoveryTok community?

We’ve seen our community embrace hashtags, like #gamblingrecovery and #gamblingawareness which offer hubs for conversation, learning, and encouragement. Hashtags such as #recoverytok and #addictionawareness offer a space to discuss recovery and awareness experiences. These cover a wide array of topics, not exclusive to gambling (some content may be triggering for viewers and viewer discretion is advised).While we choose not to use certain words like ‘addiction’ (as some people may find them stigmatising), at TikTok we support people identifying themselves as they prefer. We encourage people to find community through their self-determined identities.

If you’re looking for a supportive community where you can share your recovery experience, or connect with other community members who have similar experiences, these hashtags can be a good starting point. Whether you share your story is an important personal choice. Be mindful of the content you are comfortable sharing with others, as it may trigger or upset viewers, and community members may react to your story. We have a general Well-Being Guide that can help you decide whether you are ready to share, tips on how to best share your experiences, and what you can do after sharing.

Disclaimer

TikTok’s Safety Centre resources and guides do not provide mental health and financial services. ‘Gambling Support Resources’ on TikTok is not an alternative for medical diagnosis, treatment, or financial advice. Content produced and distributed by TikTok is solely for informational and educational use. Do not disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of the availability of services or educational materials offered by TikTok.