#ProblemGambling Campaign 2018

This week, we launched a campaign to educate people on the signs and impact of problem gambling, including information about the tactics used by the betting industry to get us to gamble.

As Cheltenham 2018 kicked off on Tuesday, all major betting websites were offering anywhere between €10 and €50 in ‘free' bets to new customers. ‘Free' bets are just one of the tactics used by industry to encourage people to start gambling, in the hope they will eventually become hooked and use their own money to continue playing during race week and beyond.

Our campaign is also taking place during ‘Problem Gambling Awareness Month 2018’ and highlights the negative impact of problem gambling, the signs to look out for if you’re worried someone might have a gambling addiction, and provides information on support services for anyone struggling with a gambling problem.

Gambling in Ireland

Gambling is a popular pastime in Ireland, among people of all ages. What many people don’t realise is that something that may seem like a bit of fun can become harmful, and it’s important to understand what problem gambling is and how to identify it.

What is problem gambling?

Problem gambling is when people gamble continuously despite the negative impact it has on their life. It may result in serious loss of money, getting into debt or arrears, borrowing money, feeling irritated when not gambling and being unable to show up for prior commitments. People might gamble online, in the bookies, at the races, or at other locations.

SpunOut.ie #ProblemGambling Campaign

For our campaign, we are highlighting the risks involved with gambling, sharing tips for reducing the negative impact of gambling on your life, and provide information on support services for anyone struggling with a gambling problem.

Our information busts myths about gambling and gambling addiction, the signs to look out for if you’re worried a young person might have a gambling addiction and advice for supporting a friend who has a gambling problem. Our article and video on gambling and the brain outlines how gambling can become addictive, having the same effect as alcohol or drugs.

We have also released two videos, the first with Niall McNamee, a former GAA player from Co. Offaly, who shared his experience with gambling addiction and seeking help and the second with Padraig Bannon, a 25 year old from Co. Laois, who also shared his own story of problem gambling.

You can find a full list of campaign factsheets and information below.

How can I stop gambling?

Gambling can be difficult to give up and you may have to try a few different things, but recovery is possible no matter how hopeless the situation may feel. You can call Problem Gambling Ireland for information and support on 089 241 5401.

For more information on gambling support services, click here.

Articles

• How the gambling industry gets people to gamble
• Signs a young person has a gambling problem
• Myths about gambling
• 11 tips on staying safe while gambling
• Facts about online gambling
• How do you know if you have a gambling problem?
• Getting help for a gambling addiction
• Supporting someone with a gambling problem
• The relationship between gambling and the brain

Video

Watch these interviews on first-hand experience of dealing with gambling problems

Learn more about how gambling affects the brain, and how a person can become addicted to gambling.

Where can I get further support?

You can call Problem Gambling Ireland for information and support on 089 241 5401.

For more information on gambling support services, click here.