Learn about problem gambling, how patterns affect emotional and mental health, and how evidence-based therapy using CBT, ACT, and IFS can support lasting change.
Exploring why gambling can become problematic, how it affects mental and emotional health, and how evidence-based therapy supports lasting change
Gambling is a common form of entertainment for many people, but for some, it develops into a pattern that is difficult to control and causes distress, financial strain, or relationship problems.
Problem gambling involves repeated, uncontrollable betting despite negative consequences, often accompanied by preoccupation, secrecy, and emotional distress. Like other behavioural addictions, it is not a moral failing or weakness, but a learned coping strategy that can serve to manage stress, anxiety, low mood, or trauma-related emotions.
Recognizing Gambling Patterns
Not all gambling is problematic. Occasional participation in lotteries, sports betting, or casinos can be recreational and harmless. Gambling becomes concerning when it is frequent, impulsive, or accompanied by loss of control, financial difficulties, or emotional strain.
Patterns may include online or in-person gambling binges, chasing losses, lying to loved ones about gambling, or using gambling to escape uncomfortable emotions or boredom. Identifying these patterns without judgment is a key step toward seeking support.
The Emotional and Psychological Impact
Problem gambling often interacts with anxiety, low mood, emotion regulation challenges, and trauma. While gambling can provide temporary excitement, distraction, or relief from uncomfortable feelings, these effects are short-lived and often followed by guilt, shame, or distress.
Over time, reliance on gambling as a coping strategy can intensify emotional difficulties, disrupt sleep, impair focus, and strain relationships. For individuals with a history of trauma, gambling may provide momentary relief but reinforce patterns of avoidance or emotional dysregulation.
Why Compassionate Therapy Matters
Shame or punishment-based approaches rarely lead to lasting change. Evidence-based therapy focuses on understanding the function gambling serves in a person’s life, identifying triggers, and developing healthier coping strategies. Compassionate approaches validate the person’s experience, reduce self-criticism, and create a safe space to explore underlying emotional drivers.
Evidence-Based Therapies for Problem Gambling
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps individuals recognize gambling triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts like “I can win it back” or “I need this to feel better,” and develop skills to manage urges.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports people in accepting uncomfortable emotions and urges while taking action aligned with personal values, such as financial responsibility, well-being, and relationships.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) explores how parts of a person may use gambling to soothe pain, manage stress, or protect against emotional overwhelm, fostering self-compassion and emotional healing.
Building a Healthier Relationship with Risk and Reward
Effective treatment integrates practical skills, emotional insight, and understanding the internal drivers behind gambling. Recovery is measured not by perfection but by increased awareness, self-compassion, emotional regulation, and alignment with personal values.
Whether someone struggles with occasional risky bets, frequent gambling binges, or is supporting a loved one, understanding gambling through a nuanced and compassionate lens opens the door to meaningful and lasting change.
If you are ready to explore evidence-based support for problem gambling or compulsive betting, we invite you to contact us to learn how therapy can help.
In the meantime, for additional information and support for yourself or a loved one visit the responsible gambling organization.
