Trusted help, all in one place.
Every resource below is free or low-cost, and most are available anywhere in the U.S. We only list organizations we'd send our own family to.
Helplines & crisis support
National Problem Gambling Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7. Trained counselors connect you to local treatment and support. Available to people who gamble and to their families.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you love is in emotional crisis or thinking about suicide. Call, text, or chat, 24/7.
SAMHSA National Helpline
Federal treatment referral service for mental health and substance use, which often overlap with gambling. Free, confidential, 24/7, English and Spanish.
Peer support & community
Gamblers Anonymous
Free 12-step fellowship with in-person and online meetings across the country. No dues, no fees, no requirements other than a desire to stop gambling.
Gam-Anon
For the spouses, family members, and close friends of people who gamble. Meet others who understand and learn how to take care of yourself.
GamTalk
A free, moderated online community and 24/7 chat for people with gambling concerns and their families. A good option if meetings feel like too much right now.
SMART Recovery
Science-based, non-12-step mutual support groups, including meetings for gambling. In-person and online, plus a Family & Friends program.
Tools to put distance between you and gambling
Self-exclusion programs
Most states let you voluntarily ban yourself from casinos and licensed online sportsbooks for one year, five years, or life. Many operators also offer their own self-exclusion. The helpline can tell you how it works in your state.
BetBlocker
Free, charity-run software that blocks access to thousands of gambling sites and apps on phones, tablets, and computers. You choose the duration and it can't be undone early.
Gamban
Paid blocking software covering all your devices. Some states and helplines provide it free; ask when you call.
Bank gambling blocks
A growing number of banks and card issuers let you block gambling transactions in their app or by request. Call your bank and ask. Prepaid cards for daily spending are another simple guardrail.
Money & debt
National Foundation for Credit Counseling
Nonprofit credit counselors who can review your full picture, negotiate with creditors, and set up a debt management plan. Initial sessions are typically free.
Debtors Anonymous
Peer fellowship for people struggling with compulsive debt. Pairs well with gambling recovery.
Free credit reports
Check all three bureaus for accounts you don't recognize. Families especially: do this early.
Learn more
National Council on Problem Gambling
The national advocacy organization for problem gambling. Research, state-by-state help directories, screening tools, and the helpline itself.
Gambling Therapy
Free online support, forums, and multilingual help for people anywhere in the world.
Know of a resource we should add? Let us know. We review every suggestion.