Gambling help: free hotlines, support groups and treatment

The short answer

In the US, call 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738) or text 800GAM to reach the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which is free, confidential, and open 24/7. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988. Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon offer free peer support for gamblers and families.

The US National Problem Gambling Helpline

The National Problem Gambling Helpline is run by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). It connects you with trained staff at a network of contact centers across the US who offer support and referrals to local treatment, including state-funded counseling.

NCPG adopted 1-800-MY-RESET as its national number in January 2026. Its previous number, 1-800-522-4700, still works. You may also see 1-800-GAMBLER, which is now operated separately by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey. Any of these will connect you with help.

If you are in crisis

Gambling problems are linked to a higher risk of suicidal thoughts. If you are thinking about ending your life or are in immediate danger, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911. You can also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.

Peer support groups

  • Gamblers Anonymous holds free meetings in person, by phone, and online, based on a 12-step program.
  • Gam-Anon supports spouses, family members, and friends of people who gamble.
  • SMART Recovery offers free, science-based meetings for addictive behaviors, including gambling.

Professional treatment

Treatment for gambling disorder usually involves counseling, most often cognitive behavioral therapy, and sometimes treatment for related conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance use. Many states fund free or low-cost gambling treatment for residents. The helpline can tell you what is available in your state, and NCPG lists help by state.

Help outside the US

CountryServiceContact
United KingdomNational Gambling Helpline (GamCare)0808 8020 133
AustraliaGambling Help Online1800 858 858
Canada (Ontario)ConnexOntario1-866-531-2600

Pairing support with blocking

Support and barriers work best together. While you line up help, a blocker such as GambleGuard removes easy access to gambling sites in Chrome, and our blocking guide covers phones and other devices.

Common questions

What is the national gambling helpline number?

The US National Problem Gambling Helpline is 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). You can also text 800GAM. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7. The previous number, 1-800-522-4700, still works.

Is 1-800-GAMBLER still the national helpline?

Not since September 2025. The National Council on Problem Gambling now uses 1-800-MY-RESET. 1-800-GAMBLER is operated separately by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey and can still connect you with help.

Need to talk to someone? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or text 800GAM for the free, confidential National Problem Gambling Helpline, 24/7. In a crisis, call or text 988.