You don’t have to handle this on your own. If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do next, talking to a counsellor online can help you take care of yourself while supporting someone else through their gambling.
Our live online chat is an excellent option if you’re taking your first step in seeking support. If talking to a counsellor face-to-face feels daunting, you might find it easier to connect online instead.
Gambling Help Online provides free, confidential, and anonymous online chat support. You can speak live with a professional counsellor any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This service is available to anyone affected by their own or someone else’s gambling, including family members and friends like you. We can help you take care of your own wellbeing during this challenging time, while also offering guidance on supporting someone through their gambling recovery.
Online chat is convenient and flexible. People can start a session anywhere, anytime.
"Quicker, easier, immediate, felt comfortable. Convenient as I have a computer." - Anonymous
“I wanted to put an end to my online gambling habit. I felt more comfortable chatting to someone online, rather than on the phone." - Anonymous
Our online chat counsellors understand that typed conversations have the possibility of being misinterpreted, that people may not have had the opportunity to explain their feelings fully, and that the speed of typing can get them out of sync with each other. We encourage people using this service to let their counsellor know anytime they feel this may be the case.
To start a live chat session, visit here.
Not sure this is the right type of support?
There are many ways to get help. Everyone’s different, so it’s really important for each person to find the right support for them. Different approaches may work better for different people. We’re here to help people choose the type of support that suits them best.
here are different kinds of counselling and support available for people affected by someone else’s gambling. Take a look at the options available:
- Gambling helpline
- Ongoing gambling counselling
- Financial counselling
- Email support
- SMS support
- Online forums
To learn more about how counselling and support can help family members and friends, read our information on Seeking Support. It explains what to expect and how getting help can make things feel more manageable.
Do you want more help?
If you’d like to speak with someone about what’s been happening for you, you can start a confidential online chat with us or call the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858. It’s free, available 24/7, and open to anyone affected by gambling harm.
Support isn’t only for people who gamble. It’s here for you as a partner, parent, sibling, family member or friend. You deserve help to cope, set boundaries, and look after your own wellbeing.
If you’re also looking for practical ways to support someone to change their gambling, visit Taking Action.
