The harm never stops at one person.
It has been estimated that for every person experiencing gambling problems, another 5 to 10 people are negatively affected — with harms to mental health and financial security especially common.
When gambling becomes a problem, it can result in lower self-esteem; stress, isolation, anxiety and depression; compulsive behaviour and loss of control; runaway debt; family breakup and domestic abuse; substance abuse; and suicide.
Gambling can drive poverty by diverting household spending from essential goods and services. The harms extend to relationship breakdown, family violence, financial distress, stigma, income-generating crimes, and the neglect of children.
Affected by someone else’s gambling? Support exists for families too — see our Addiction Recovery page, including Gam-Anon for family and friends.
It doesn’t start with a bet.
It starts with an ad.
Tell your MP to pass Bill S‑211 — it takes a minute.