The rise in suicides linked to gambling has been a growing mental health emergency in the UK. While gambling is widely marketed as a harmless form of entertainment, it is unfortunate that many individuals suffer from devastating psychological and financial consequences when betting becomes uncontrollable. The link between suicide and gambling is no longer anecdotal as it is an unfolding mental epidemic that demands urgent action from policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the whole society.
To help address the rapidly growing number of individuals who suffer from gambling-related harm, GamLEARN aims to highlight the stark realities behind gambling and advocate for systematic change.
In this article, we will explore the connection between suicide and gambling, unravel its causes and consequences, and provide ways to prevent and give support to those who need to get their lives back.
The Link Between Suicide and Gambling
The harm caused by gambling is tricky to recognise. Unlike issues related to substance misuse, gambling harm is without visible signs and emerges quietly. There are no physical symptoms to give it away—no scent on the breath, no marks on the skin, no physical deterioration. Yet beneath the surface, gambling can wreak profound emotional and psychological damage. For some, it leads to a cycle of distress, secrecy, and self-blame that becomes unbearable.
Unfortunately, the internal agony experienced by those who feel out of control with their gambling behaviour is frequently marked by guilt, isolation, and a relentless sense of failure. Many report feeling trapped—believing they have let down their loved ones, destroyed their financial security, and lost their sense of purpose. When attempts to regain control repeatedly fail and when no intervention is made to recover, some individuals begin to see suicide not as a choice, but as a perceived escape from overwhelming despair.
Why Gambling Increases Suicide Risk
Like any other pastime, gambling begins as a harmless diversion. But for some, it becomes an all-consuming struggle that chips away at their finances, relationships, and mental health. Understanding how gambling-related harm contributes to suicidal thoughts is vital if we are to tackle this growing public health crisis.
The following are some of the reasons why gambling increases the suicide risk among struggling individuals:
Financial Despair
The most immediate and visible impact of problem gambling is financial devastation. From spiralling debt and maxed-out credit cards to lost savings and stolen assets, the monetary losses can be catastrophic. For many, the burden of financial ruin becomes overwhelming, leading to anxiety, depression, and a pervasive sense of hopelessness.
Shame and Stigma
Gambling is often framed as a moral failing rather than a mental health condition. This perception fosters a deep sense of shame, especially among those who feel they have let down loved ones or lost control. Such shame fuels secrecy, isolation, and reluctance to seek help—factors that significantly increase suicide risk.
Failing Relationships
An uncontrolled gambling habit frequently leads to strained relationships, emotional distance, and in many cases, complete breakdown of family units. Marital conflicts, custody battles, and estrangement from children or parents compound the emotional distress, reinforcing the feeling of being trapped.
Co-Occurring Mental Health Issues
Gambling harm rarely occurs on its own. Many individuals affected also experience mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or difficulties with alcohol or substance use. When these issues overlap, the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours increases significantly, creating a complex and dangerous situation that requires coordinated support and intervention.
Gambling Environments that Amplify the Risk
According to most bettors, the nature of gambling is about luck, however, its devastating effects say otherwise. Gambling is shaped by highly engineered environments designed to keep people engaged, spending, and returning.
For those already vulnerable, these environments do not just encourage risky behaviour. They can accelerate harm and deepen despair. The following are some of the factors that amplify the risk:
- Online gambling and instant access – Online platforms now operate 24/7—from sports betting to virtual casinos, and slot games. Because these are accessible via mobile phones at any time, they remove barriers to gambling and allows harmful behaviours to flourish in private.
Suggested read: How Betting Giants Exploit Vulnerable Gamblers—And What Needs to Change
- Targeted marketing and VIP schemes – High-risk gamblers are often targeted with tailored incentives: free bets, cashback offers, or exclusive VIP treatment. These tactics by gambling giants prey on vulnerability, leading to more problems.
- Normalisation through advertising – Gambling advertisements are everywhere—from TV ads during primetime shows to sponsorship of sporting events. This saturation of gambling ads can lead to relapse and emotional collapse.
Suicide and Gambling Prevention and Treatment
With timely support, open conversations, and greater awareness, many lives can be turned around—or even saved—long before they are at risk. Prevention and early intervention are not just helpful strategies. They are critical lifelines in tackling the connection between gambling and suicide.
Recognise Warning Signs
Timely intervention can save lives. It is crucial to recognise early signs of gambling harm, such as:
- Concealing betting activity
- Borrowing or stealing money
- Mood swings or irritability
- Neglecting responsibilities at work or home
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness or suicidal thoughts
Suggested read: Gambling Problem 101: Warning Signs, Impacts, and Ways to Recover
Access to Specialised Support
Individuals affected by gambling harm must be able to access targeted, effective support services. These should include:
- One-to-one counselling
- Peer support groups
- Financial counselling
- Mental health services
- 24/7 crisis helplines
- Community-based support
GamLEARN is proud to be part of a growing network of grassroots organisations working to fill these gaps. Our peer-led approach ensures that individuals feel understood, empowered, and less alone in their recovery journey.
Education and Awareness Campaign about Suicide and Gambling
Public education is key to breaking down stigma and encouraging help-seeking behaviour. Schools, universities, and community organisations should incorporate gambling awareness into their mental health and wellbeing curriculums. Programmes should be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and focused on early prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there warning signs that someone may be struggling with gambling-related harm?
Yes. Common signs include secrecy around finances, borrowing money frequently, drastic mood swings, missing work or social events, and a preoccupation with betting. Emotional signs such as anxiety, depression, or expressing hopelessness may also indicate deeper issues.
What should I do if someone I care about is in distress due to gambling?
Start by gently expressing concern and offering a non-judgemental space to talk. Encourage them to seek professional help—whether that’s through a GP, mental health service, or a specialist support organisation like GamLEARN.
How can I get involved or help raise awareness?
You can support GamLEARN’s mission by sharing our resources, attending awareness events, volunteering your time, or simply talking openly about the risks of gambling-related harm. The more we break the silence, the more lives we can protect.
Final Thoughts
The gambling industry continues to profit from human vulnerability and lives are being lost—needlessly and silently. It is time to face this emergency head-on. By investing in education, reform, and support services, we can reduce gambling-related harm and prevent future suicides. We owe it to the lives already lost—and to those still fighting.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling harm or suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. GamLEARN is here to listen, support, and guide you toward recovery. Message us at info@gamlearn.org.uk and let’s shed light on those who suffer from suicide and gambling.
