Women and Gambling
Gambling can be seen as a form of escape from the everyday pressures of life. It can be fun and exciting for a while lifting you out of the tedium of your usual routine whilst offering the added possibility of a 'big win'. It can also provide a welcome opportunity to socialise.
However, there is also another prospect and that is that gambling can also result in increasing debt and spiral out of control. This may then be followed by the chasing of losses in the hope of, 'making it alright' though this is seldom the case.
Because women are generally seen to be nurturing, selfless and caring many women can experience enormous shame and guilt as they feel they are depriving not only themselves but their families, due to the gambling behaviour. This is a major factor in women struggling to acknowledge the seriousness of their problem which would then help them to face up to it and seek help.
How we can help
The time may come when you do feel that you would like some support in making changes, and it is at this point that we can explore with you a number of ways in which we might be of help. We can offer the following confidential services:
- Helpline (0845 6000 133) click here for more information
- NetLine. Click here for more information
- One-to-one counselling click here for more information
- Additionally you might want to visit our Forums and Chat / Support room here.
Women only group sessions
A therapeutic group for women takes place each week on Friday mornings at the GamCare main office in London. This is a group for women who have a problem with gambling, NOT for partners of problem gamblers. The group meets each Friday from 11am to 12.30pm. The group has a maximum of 8 members, and is facilitated by our experienced GamCare counsellor Liz Karter.
Group members are asked to make a commitment to regular attendance each week. If you are interested in joining the group or would like more information, please contact Janet Kishna on 020 7801 7006 who will arrange for an assessment with Liz Karter.