Confidential support for online betting, casino apps, and financial strain
When the Risk No Longer Feels Like a Choice
Gambling starts small. A flutter on the horses. A few spins on an app. A bit of excitement after a stressful day. But when it turns into a cycle of secrecy, regret and compulsion, it can take over more than just your bank balance.
At Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, we understand the complex emotional toll gambling can take. Whether you’re spending more than you can afford, hiding your behaviour, or chasing losses you can’t recover, we’re here to offer a safe, non-judgemental space to break free from the cycle.
Understanding Gambling Addiction
Gambling addiction is a behavioural addiction that creates a psychological dependency on the rush, escape or possibility of a win—even when losses are high and consequences painful.
You might:
Use gambling to numb stress, low mood or emotional pain
Feel a strong urge to gamble even when you don’t want to
Chase losses in the hope of “making things right”
Spend more time or money gambling than intended
Lie to others about your gambling habits
Feel anxiety, shame or depression around gambling
- As of 2024, over 1.4 million adults in the UK are at risk of gambling harm (Gambling Commission)
- Around 300,000 are classified as having a gambling disorder
- Online gambling is now the most common and fastest-growing form of gambling in the UK
- Gambling harm can include debt, relationship breakdown, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts
The Emotional Drivers Behind Gambling
For many, gambling is less about money and more about escape. It can provide:
- Temporary relief from anxiety or depression
- A sense of control or excitement
- Distraction from grief, trauma or relationship issues
- A way to cope with loneliness, shame or boredom
In therapy, we work to uncover what’s driving the urge—and what other strategies might serve you better.
“I Keep Saying It’s the Last Time”
You’re not weak. Gambling addiction is not about willpower. It’s about a cycle that hijacks your emotional world. At Hope Therapy, we offer a grounded, respectful space to:
- Explore why gambling became a coping tool
- Understand and manage triggers and urges
- Break the cycle of secrecy, guilt and compulsion
- Rebuild trust with yourself and others
- Find healthier ways to self-soothe and feel in control
Whether you want to stop completely or reduce your gambling, we tailor support to you.
How Hope Therapy Can Help
Our experienced therapists work with people at all stages of gambling recovery—from early concerns to long-term patterns. You don’t need to meet a formal diagnosis. If it’s affecting your life, it matters.
Counselling can help you:
Make sense of the emotional roots of gambling
Develop coping skills to manage urges
Heal shame and rebuild confidence
Address any co-occurring mental health issues (e.g. anxiety, trauma)
Restore relationships and emotional safety
Flexible, Accessible Support
You can access counselling in the way that works best for your life:
Zoom counselling – Flexible, confidential support from home
Telephone counselling – Easy and discreet
In-person counselling – Face-to-face in welcoming therapy rooms
We meet you where you are.