What can I do right now?

If you feel unsafe, call or text 988 now, or local emergency services. Say what you're feeling out loud or write it down. It helps. Reach one person. You don't have to carry this alone.

What should I do in the next 24 hours?

Eat something, drink water, and try to rest. Get outside for a short walk. Avoid alcohol and other things that lower your guard.

When should I get immediate help?

If you feel unsafe, hopeless, or are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 now. For gambling help, call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), or reach a real person at 646-721-2056.

Is gambling linked to depression?

The short answer

Shame, guilt, fear, feeling empty. These are real and they're heavy, but they are not the truth about who you are. Talking about them, caring for your body, and getting support can make them lighter. If you ever feel unsafe, call or text 988 now.

Talk to someone: 646-721-2056 Build my plan

Try this nowTrigger MapSee which feelings set off the urge. Private, takes about 5 minutes.

Quick answers

Is gambling linked to depression?: Shame, guilt, fear, feeling empty. These are real and they're heavy, but they are not the truth about who you are. Talking about them, caring for your body, and getting support can make them lighter. If you ever feel unsafe, call or text 988 now.
What can I do right now?: If you feel unsafe, call or text 988 now, or local emergency services. Say what you're feeling out loud or write it down. It helps. Reach one person. You don't have to carry this alone.
What should I do in the next 24 hours?: Eat something, drink water, and try to rest. Get outside for a short walk. Avoid alcohol and other things that lower your guard.
When should I get immediate help?: If you feel unsafe, hopeless, or are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 now. For gambling help, call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738), or reach a real person at 646-721-2056.

Right now

1If you feel unsafe, call or text 988 now, or local emergency services.
2Say what you're feeling out loud or write it down. It helps.
3Reach one person. You don't have to carry this alone.

Next 24 hours

1Eat something, drink water, and try to rest.
2Get outside for a short walk.
3Avoid alcohol and other things that lower your guard.

This week

1Talk to a therapist about how you've been feeling.
2Build small routines: sleep, meals, movement.
3Reconnect with one friend or activity you've lost.

Reading this alone? You don't have to. A real person will listen.

Call or text 646-721-2056

When to get immediate help

If you're thinking about harming yourself, feel unable to stay safe, are considering stealing to fund gambling, or feel completely overwhelmed, get help now. In the U.S. and Canada, call or text 988. If there's immediate danger, call 911.

One question to ask yourself

What is the biggest risk tonight: access to money, access to betting apps, being alone, watching sports, or fear of telling someone? Your answer can be your first step.

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How do I cope with anxiety in gambling recovery?

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