Help and advice needed ;(

5 Posts
5 Users
0 Reactions
1,220 Views
 GMD
(@a6d4iwu5pf)
Posts: 1
Topic starter
 

Hi everyone,

I’m really struggling and I don’t know what to do anymore, so I’m hoping for some advice and support.

 

My partner has a gambling problem and for a while I thought things were improving. He signed up to GamStop and promised he was done, and I wanted to believe him.

 

But recently I’ve found out he’s still gambling. He’s been asking me for money and telling me it’s for other things (bills, food, work stuff etc), but I’ve discovered it’s actually been going towards gambling. What’s worse is he’s found a way around GamStop.

I feel completely heartbroken and honestly stupid for trusting him, but I also know addiction makes people lie. Still, it’s really affecting me emotionally and financially, and I’m starting to feel anxious all the time.

 

I don’t know what the right steps are.

 

  • Do I confront him again?
  • Do I stop giving any money completely?
  • How do I protect myself without feeling like I’m abandoning him?
  • Has anyone been through this and had their partner actually recover?

 

 

I love him, but I’m scared this is going to ruin us, and I don’t want to keep being lied to.

 

Any advice, personal experiences, or suggestions for what helped would really mean a lot right now.

 

Thank you.

This topic was modified 4 months ago by GMD
This topic was modified 4 months ago by Forum admin
 
Posted : 8th February 2026 2:30 am
(@lv0w5sy42h)
Posts: 11
 

I'm sorry to read this. Not sure if you're aware but Gamstop will only block online UK registered casinos. There are many off shore sites available online. I'm pointing this out because once registered its virtually impossible to use UK sites.if he's still Gamcare registered he may be using these.Also how long did he sign up for ? It could be his inclusion expired. I'm afraid the change has to come from him. You can't take responsibility for his behaviour.  I mean that in the nicest way. As someone with the issue on and off for two decades I know ultimately its only me that can change. Its really up to you how you go forward but I would say yes you must stop access to money. If its not available he can't be tempted. You must demonstrate you are serious about him dealing with his issue. Again how you do that is up to you. Finally. Please do not feel in any way this is your fault nor are you under any obligation to put up with it. I hope it can be resolved but ultimately you must think about what's best for you.

Good luck 

 
Posted : 8th February 2026 5:17 pm
(@lp5vut869c)
Posts: 1398
 

Hi GMD

There are some very good peer supporters on here who will no doubt reply but I would suggest having a chat with the advisors online (just click the speak to someone button). There is a chatroom for friends and family on here as well where you can get some good advice.

 
Posted : 8th February 2026 10:04 pm
(@27ae1kn6od)
Posts: 3
 

I am sorry to hear that your partner's struggle with  gambling harms is negatively impacting you in  your relationship. Its natural to want to help a loved one overcome gambling , however you cannot, unless he's willing and intentional about wanting to address  gambling himself.   There are other self exclusionary mechanisms available. Apart from Gamstop that is limited to the UK, please consider Gamban removed link . Gamban takes a multi-layered approach to gambling protections. Its a free software that can be installed  in your partners phone as well 15 other devices ( including your own) therefore blocking access in the UK and internationally. In the meantime, please be advised that there is additional support available for both you and your partner if you contact the National Gambling Helpline [0808 820133] or whatsupp live chat. There is one-to-to one support that can help your partner address his triggers and explore healthier coping mechanisms. The same support is also available to affected others, like yourself. It would be an opportunity for you to explore ways in which you can set boundaries and how to navigate or improve your current dynamic. I hope that this  has been useful. 

 

 

 

 
Posted : 9th February 2026 1:41 pm
Forum admin
(@forum-admin)
Posts: 6396
Admin
 

Hi there, 

Mod here, just popping in to give the link to GamBan that PeerSupporterPhini mentioned:  www.gamban.com/gamcare

All the best

Jane

Forum Admin

 

 
Posted : 9th February 2026 4:58 pm

We are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You can also contact us for free on 0808 80 20 133. If you would like to find out more about the service before you start, including information on confidentiality, please click below. Call recordings and chat transcripts are saved for 28 days for quality assurance.

Find out more
Close