Helping or Hurting? A Family's Struggle with Problem Gambling

It is important for the affected family members to seek help to understand their loved one’s condition and also to learn coping skills and strategies.

Mr. and Mrs. W, a couple in their 70s, have spent many years worrying about their son, who struggles with problem gambling. Like many loving parents, they did everything they could to help him, including repeatedly paying off his gambling debts.

However, despite their sacrifices, their son's gambling continued. Eventually, they made the difficult decision to stop bailing him out financially, hoping that this would encourage him to take responsibility for his actions.

Instead, their son became angry and lashed out at them. Having grown accustomed to his parents rescuing him, he could not accept their decision. The experience left Mrs. W heartbroken and questioning herself. "Am I a bad mother?" she wondered, carrying an overwhelming sense of guilt and failure.

Sadly, this is the reality for many families affected by addiction. In their desire to help, family members often do not realise that certain actions, though well-intentioned, may unintentionally enable the addiction to continue. The emotional toll can be immense—relationships become strained, savings are depleted, and constant worry and fear take hold. Families may live with anxiety, wondering if debt collectors will appear at their doorstep or whether they should continue helping their loved one.

No family should have to walk this journey alone.

It is important for family members to seek support and gain a better understanding of addiction and how it affects both the individual and those around them. With the right guidance, families can learn healthy coping strategies, set appropriate boundaries, and find hope and healing for themselves and their loved ones.

Are your stressed over your loved one having an addiction? Call One Hope Centre at 65471011. We can help.