Safety Centre

Gambling support

Updated: December 12, 2024

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What is gambling?

Gambling is the act of betting money or something of monetary value on events with uncertain outcomes and an element of chance, for financial gain. There are various forms of gambling, such as mahjong, casino games (slot machines, poker, roulette), online gambling sites and lotteries. While gambling is considered a legal form of entertainment in many countries around the world, it carries the potential for serious financial loss or ruin, which can lead to mental health issues.

What is problem gambling?

Problem gambling occurs when gambling becomes compulsive. Individuals may experience an uncontrollable urge to gamble, even when there are negative consequences or a desire to stop. Problem gambling carries the risk of serious financial loss or ruin, which can also lead to the development of other mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Younger players are especially vulnerable to these negative mental health effects.

Signs that suggest someone may be struggling with problem gambling include:

Becoming dependent on gambling, gambling becomes compulsive and is no longer done just for fun and entertainment
Constantly thinking about gambling or betting, ways to win or how to deal with debts
Placing increasingly higher bets or stakes and gambling beyond their financial means, including exceeding self-imposed budgets or betting with non-disposable income.
Being subjected to severe financial and psychological harms and finding new sources of money to support gambling habits
Not sharing gambling experiences or financial losses with a partner or friends
Losing control over gambling or betting activities, failing to recognise the negative effects on themselves or their loved ones
Neglecting relationships with partners, friends or family and/or school or work responsibilities.

How to get support for problem gambling or gambling disorders

It is important to know that help is out there, recovery is possible, and those struggling with problem gambling or gambling disorders are not alone.

If you’re interested in talking to someone or exploring resources for yourself or a loved one, our search tool can help you find some local options for treatment, support and recovery.

More information about how to support friends who are experiencing mental health difficulties is available in TikTok's Well-Being Guide.

Learn more

How can I engage with the "RecoveryTok community"?

Hashtags like #gamblingrecovery and #gamblingawareness are hubs for conversation, learning and encouragement within our community.
Hashtags such as #recoverytok and #addictionawareness offer a space to discuss recovery and awareness experiences. These cover a wide array of topics, not exclusive to gambling (some content may be triggering for viewers and viewer discretion is advised). While we choose not to use certain words like "addiction" (as some people may find them stigmatising), at TikTok we support people identifying themselves as they prefer. We encourage people to find community through their self-determined identities.
View our tips: Guide: How to Safely Share your Story on how to best share your experiences and what you can do after sharing.

Disclaimer

The content provided on this page is for information purposes and educational use only. “The Gambling Support Page” should not be deemed a substitute for medical, psychological or psychiatric diagnosis, treatment or advice. Do not hesitate to seek professional medical support or immediate emergency assistance if you, or any other person, are in a crisis, danger or experiencing a medical emergency. Please remember that you are not solely responsible for others' safety – you can get help.