Is gambling support really free and confidential?

Yes. National helplines, BeGambleAware, and peer groups like Gamblers Anonymous are free and confidential. You can contact many of them anonymously without giving your details.

What if I'm not ready to talk to someone yet?

You can still take action today. Blocking gambling sites on your phone, adding a bank gambling block, and self-excluding all reduce harm immediately, and can be a first step before reaching out for support.

Where to get help for gambling: free support and helplines

You don't have to fix this alone, and asking for help is not a last resort.

Updated July 21, 2026 · 2 min read

Short answer

Free, confidential helplines and peer groups are available in most countries — you can reach out anonymously.
Gamblers Anonymous and similar groups offer peer support with people who understand.
Practical harm reduction — blocking sites, bank blocks, self-exclusion — works best alongside support.

Free support you can use today

BeGambleAware (begambleaware.org) — advice and a free confidential helpline.
Gamblers Anonymous (gamblersanonymous.org) — peer support meetings worldwide.
Your national gambling helpline — many offer 24/7 chat and phone support.
Your doctor or a therapist — gambling support is a recognised part of mental health care.

For friends and family

If you're worried about someone else, you can get support too. Approach them without judgment, focus on the behaviour and its impact rather than blame, and point them toward help rather than trying to control the money for them long-term.

Pair support with practical blocks

Support helps you understand and change the behaviour; blocking tools remove the opportunity while you do. Using both together is far more effective than either alone.

Take one practical step now

While you decide on support, remove easy access. BetClear blocks 348,000+ gambling websites across your iPhone.

Start free protection

Frequently asked questions

Is gambling support really free and confidential?: Yes. National helplines, BeGambleAware, and peer groups like Gamblers Anonymous are free and confidential. You can contact many of them anonymously without giving your details.
What if I'm not ready to talk to someone yet?: You can still take action today. Blocking gambling sites on your phone, adding a bank gambling block, and self-excluding all reduce harm immediately, and can be a first step before reaching out for support.

Keep reading

How to stop gamblingA clear, practical guide to stop gambling online: remove access, block betting sites, manage the urge, and get support that actually helps.Signs of gambling addictionThe common signs of gambling addiction — chasing losses, hiding bets, borrowing money — and what to do next if you recognise them in yourself or someone else.Gambling self-exclusionWhat gambling self-exclusion is, how national schemes like GAMSTOP work, and how to combine self-exclusion with device blocking for stronger protection.

BetClear is a gambling website blocker, not a medical service. If you need clinical or crisis support, contact a qualified professional or a responsible-gambling helpline.

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