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The Festival Series supports BeGambleAware

The Festival Author
October 21, 2024 · 33 minutes to read
The Festival Series supports BeGambleAware

Gambling addiction is a significant issue across Europe, with each country facing unique challenges related to the accessibility and regulation of gambling. In response, various organisations have been set up to support individuals dealing with problem gambling. Below, you’ll find an overview of gambling addiction across European countries, the organisations offering help, and recommendations for anyone seeking assistance.

At The Festival Series, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences while prioritizing the well-being of our community. As passionate advocates for responsible gambling, we proudly support BeGambleAware, an organisation dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and providing essential resources for individuals who may need assistance. We are committed to fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility at our events, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the excitement of gambling while staying informed and in control. By repeatedly giving notice about being aware of the side effects of gambling, we strive to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all our attendees.

1. United Kingdom:

Gambling Overview:

The UK has a well-established gambling industry, including betting shops, casinos, and a robust online gambling market. The UK Gambling Commission regulates gambling activities, ensuring that operators promote responsible gambling. However, with the high availability of gambling, addiction rates have become a growing concern.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • GambleAware: A leading charity that funds research, education, and treatment. They operate the National Gambling Treatment Service, providing free helplines, counselling, and online support.
  • GamCare: Provides free information, support, and counselling for people affected by gambling. They also operate the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and offer live chat support.
  • GAMSTOP: A free service allowing individuals to self-exclude from UK-licensed online gambling platforms.

Recommendations:

  • Use Self-Exclusion Tools: Register with GAMSTOP to prevent access to online gambling sites.
  • Seek Professional Counselling: Contact GamCare for free therapy and support groups.
  • Family Support: Engage in family therapy to help address the broader impacts of gambling addiction.

2. Germany:

Gambling Overview:

Germany has a highly regulated gambling sector, with lotteries, casinos, and sports betting all controlled at the state level. Despite strict regulation, problem gambling, particularly related to online gambling and slot machines, is a concern.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Use Hotlines: Call the BZgA helpline for confidential advice and information.
  • Explore Self-Help Groups: Attend Anonyme Spieler meetings for peer support.
  • Consider Therapy: DHS offers links to addiction specialists for individualized treatment.

3. France:

Gambling Overview:

Gambling is widespread in France, with lotteries, casinos, and horse racing being popular. The growth of online gambling has added to concerns about problem gambling, particularly among young adults.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Adictel: A national helpline (09 74 75 13 13) that offers support to individuals facing gambling problems. They provide self-exclusion tools and personalized advice.
  • SOS Joueurs: A non-profit organization offering free counselling and legal advice for gambling addicts and their families.
  • ANJ (Autorité Nationale des Jeux): France's gambling regulator, which promotes responsible gambling and offers resources for those seeking help.

Recommendations:

  • Use Adictel’s Self-Exclusion Service: Limit access to online gambling sites by signing up for Adictel's self-exclusion program.
  • Seek Legal Advice: SOS Joueurs provides support not just for addiction but also for legal and financial matters related to gambling debts.
  • Access Professional Help: Consider counselling through local addiction services and groups like SOS Joueurs.

4. Italy:

Gambling Overview:

Italy is home to numerous forms of gambling, from lotteries to betting shops and online platforms. The government regulates the industry through the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli, but problem gambling remains a pressing issue, especially due to the rise of online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Telefono Verde Nazionale per le Problematiche Legate al Gioco d'Azzardo (TVNGA): A toll-free helpline (800 558822) that offers counselling and support for gambling problems.
  • FederSerD: Provides treatment and counselling through local health services for individuals affected by gambling addiction.
  • Associazione Giocatori Anonimi Italia (GA): An anonymous self-help group offering meetings for those struggling with gambling.

Recommendations:

  • Use TVNGA's Helpline: Call for immediate assistance and guidance on gambling-related issues.
  • Seek Local Counselling: FederSerD offers specialized treatment across Italy, which can be accessed through the public health system.
  • Join a Support Group: Attend meetings from Giocatori Anonimi to receive support from peers in a structured environment.

5. Spain:

Gambling Overview:

Spain has a vibrant gambling industry, from casinos and sports betting to national lotteries. While gambling is widely accepted as a form of entertainment, the country has seen a rise in addiction, particularly linked to online gambling and slot machines (known locally as tragaperras).

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Call FEJAR's Helpline: Get free advice and counselling through their national helpline.
  • Join Support Groups: Attend FEJAR’s local groups or Proyecto Hombre’s addiction recovery programs for personalized help.
  • Use Self-Exclusion Tools: Many online gambling platforms in Spain allow for self-exclusion to help manage gambling behaviour.

6. Sweden:

Gambling Overview:

Sweden’s gambling market is tightly regulated, with Svenska Spel operating most land-based gambling services. Online gambling is popular, and the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen) monitors gambling operators closely. Despite these measures, problem gambling has been on the rise, especially among young adults.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Stödlinjen: A national helpline (020-81 91 00) offering advice and support for people experiencing gambling problems. They also provide live chat and online support.
  • Spelberoendes Riksförbund: A national association offering support groups and counselling services across the country.
  • Spelpaus: A government-run self-exclusion tool that allows individuals to block themselves from all licensed gambling services in Sweden.

Recommendations:

  • Register with Spelpaus: Block access to both online and land-based gambling by signing up for this service.
  • Attend Support Groups: Participate in Spelberoendes Riksförbund’s groups for peer support.
  • Call Stödlinjen: Get confidential, immediate support for gambling addiction issues.

7. Norway:

Gambling Overview:

Norway has a state monopoly on gambling, with Norsk Tipping operating most legal forms of gambling, including lotteries and sports betting. Although gambling is well-regulated, online gambling platforms from other countries have contributed to a rise in addiction cases.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Hjelpelinjen: A free national helpline (800 800 40) offering 24/7 support for gambling addiction. It provides both phone and chat services.
  • Blå Kors: Offers rehabilitation programs and counselling for gambling addicts and their families.
  • Spillavhengighet Norge: An organization dedicated to helping people with gambling problems by providing counselling, support groups, and advice.

Recommendations:

  • Call Hjelpelinjen: Access immediate help and support through Norway’s national gambling helpline.
  • Explore Blå Kors Services: Join their rehabilitation programs for structured treatment.
  • Consider Family Therapy: Spillavhengighet Norge provides family-oriented support, recognizing the broader impact of gambling addiction.

8. Finland:

Gambling Overview:

Finland has a state-controlled gambling monopoly through Veikkaus, which operates all legal gambling services. Despite heavy regulation and the promotion of responsible gambling, addiction rates are still high, especially related to slot machines, which are widely available.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Peluuri: Finland’s national gambling helpline (0800 100 101), offering free counselling and support. They also provide online chat services.
  • Tiltti: A support organization in Helsinki that offers individual counselling and peer support for people struggling with gambling addiction.
  • Sininauhaliitto: Offers addiction treatment programs, including for gambling, and provides support for those affected by gambling-related issues.

Recommendations:

  • Use Peluuri’s Helpline: Access confidential help through their helpline or online chat services.
  • Join Peer Support Groups: Attend Tiltti’s meetings or counselling sessions for ongoing support.
  • Seek Rehabilitation Programs: Consider comprehensive treatment plans from Sininauhaliitto to address addiction at its root.

9. Poland:

Gambling Overview:

In Poland, gambling is regulated by the Gambling Act, with most forms of gambling, such as lotteries, betting, and casinos, being legal and heavily regulated. Online gambling is allowed under strict conditions. However, despite these regulations, problem gambling is a growing concern, particularly with the rise of online platforms.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Fundacja Inspiratornia: Provides education and prevention programs, as well as counselling services for people affected by gambling addiction.
  • Anonimowi Hazardziści (Gamblers Anonymous Poland): A 12-step recovery group offering support meetings throughout the country.
  • Ogólnopolska Telefoniczna Linia Wsparcia (National Gambling Helpline): A free helpline that provides advice and counselling for individuals with gambling issues.

Recommendations:

  • Contact Gamblers Anonymous: Attend local meetings or online support groups to connect with peers.
  • Seek Counselling Services: Fundacja Inspiratornia offers both prevention and recovery programs for problem gamblers.
  • Hotline Support: Call the National Gambling Helpline for confidential, immediate assistance.

10. Netherlands:

Gambling Overview:

The Netherlands recently introduced more liberal gambling laws under the Remote Gambling Act (Kansspelauthoriteit), allowing licensed operators to offer online gambling services. While the gambling industry is well-regulated, addiction has become an increasing issue, especially due to the expansion of online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Jellinek: A leading addiction care centre offering specialized treatment programs for gambling addiction, including therapy and counselling.
  • Loket Kansspel: A government-run service providing advice on responsible gambling and support for addiction.
  • AGOG (Anonieme Gokkers Omgeving Gokkers): A support group for people with gambling problems, offering meetings across the country.

Recommendations:

  • Use Self-Exclusion Tools: The Netherlands operates a self-exclusion registry (Cruks) to block access to gambling platforms.
  • Seek Professional Treatment: Jellinek offers therapy options, including individual and group counselling.
  • Join Support Groups: AGOG provides a structured environment for peer support, which can be a valuable part of recovery.

11. Belgium:

Gambling Overview:

Belgium has strict gambling regulations, overseen by the Belgian Gaming Commission, which controls both online and land-based gambling. Despite the regulation, addiction rates have risen, particularly with the availability of online casinos and sports betting.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Gokhulp: A free, confidential online service offering counselling, self-help modules, and a helpline (0800 35 777) for problem gamblers.
  • De Druglijn: Provides support for gambling and other addictions via a helpline (078 15 10 20) and online chat.
  • Gamblers Anonymous Belgium (GA): Offers 12-step meetings and support groups for gambling addiction across Belgium.

Recommendations:

  • Call Gokhulp or De Druglijn: Use these services for immediate support, advice, and counselling.
  • Consider Online Therapy: Gokhulp offers digital tools and resources to help manage gambling addiction.
  • Self-Exclusion Programs: Register with the Exclusion Register managed by the Belgian Gaming Commission to prevent access to licensed gambling platforms.

12. Austria:

Gambling Overview:

Austria’s gambling sector is highly regulated, with Casinos Austria holding a near-monopoly on casino operations. However, the rise of online gambling has contributed to the growth of problem gambling in the country.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Spielsuchtberatung: A national service providing counselling and support for gambling addiction, available through in-person sessions or via phone.
  • Verein Spielsuchthilfe: A non-profit organization offering specialized programs, self-help groups, and counselling for individuals with gambling problems.
  • Gamblers Anonymous Austria (GA): A well-established support group offering regular meetings throughout the country.

Recommendations:

  • Seek Local Counselling: Spielsuchtberatung offers professional support tailored to individuals and families.
  • Join Self-Help Groups: Verein Spielsuchthilfe and GA offer valuable peer support and therapy programs.
  • Use Self-Exclusion Tools: Austria offers national self-exclusion programs, allowing individuals to ban themselves from casinos and online gambling platforms.

13. Czech Republic:

Gambling Overview:

The Czech Republic has a well-established gambling industry that includes casinos, betting shops, and online gambling. The country passed reforms in 2017 to better regulate the sector, but problem gambling, especially related to slot machines and online betting, remains an issue.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Společnost Podané Ruce: A non-profit organization providing addiction counselling, including for gambling. They offer therapy, support groups, and harm-reduction services.
  • Anonymní Hazardní Hráči (Gamblers Anonymous Czech Republic): A support group offering 12-step meetings for problem gamblers.
  • Linka Duševní Tíže (Mental Distress Line): A helpline offering psychological support for individuals dealing with various mental health issues, including gambling addiction.

Recommendations:

  • Contact Společnost Podané Ruce: Engage in therapy or harm-reduction services to manage gambling behaviour.
  • Join Support Groups: Anonymní Hazardní Hráči provides a structured, peer-supported recovery process.
  • Hotline Support: Use the Mental Distress Line to access immediate help for gambling-related mental health challenges.

14. Denmark:

Gambling Overview:

Denmark has a well-regulated gambling industry, controlled by the Danish Gambling Authority. The country has legalized online casinos and betting, and gambling addiction rates have increased, particularly with online platforms.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • StopSpillet: Denmark’s national gambling helpline (70 22 28 25), offering free, confidential support and counselling services.
  • Centre for Ludomani: The country’s largest treatment facility for gambling addiction, offering free counselling, therapy, and support for individuals and families.
  • Gamblers Anonymous Denmark (GA): Provides 12-step programs and regular meetings for people struggling with gambling addiction.

Recommendations:

  • Use StopSpillet’s Helpline: Access immediate support from trained professionals via phone or chat.
  • Seek Specialized Treatment: The Centre for Ludomani offers professional therapy and group sessions at no cost.
  • Consider Self-Exclusion: Denmark operates a self-exclusion program that allows individuals to block themselves from online gambling platforms.

15. Slovakia:

Gambling Overview:

Slovakia has a regulated gambling industry, with the Slovak Ministry of Finance overseeing both land-based and online gambling activities. Despite these regulations, problem gambling, particularly related to online casinos, is a growing concern.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Professional Help: The Centre for Drug Addictions offers therapy and rehabilitation programs for gambling.
  • Join Peer Support Groups: Občianske Združenie Závislosť provides group sessions and personal recovery plans.
  • Use Self-Exclusion Tools: Many Slovakian online gambling sites offer voluntary self-exclusion programs.

16. Estonia:

Gambling Overview:

Estonia’s gambling industry is regulated by the Estonian Tax and Customs Board, which oversees both land-based and online gambling. Problem gambling is increasing, particularly as online gambling platforms become more popular.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Counselling: Contact the Gambling Addiction Counselling Centre for professional therapy.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Join Gamblers Anonymous meetings for peer support and structured recovery.
  • Use Self-Exclusion Programs: Many gambling platforms in Estonia offer voluntary self-exclusion options to help manage gambling behaviour.

17. Latvia:

Gambling Overview:

Latvia has a heavily regulated gambling market, with the Lotteries and Gambling Supervisory Inspection of Latvia overseeing the sector. The rise of online gambling has led to an increase in gambling addiction rates.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Counselling Services: Use the Latvian Addiction Specialists Association to find professional support.
  • Attend Support Groups: Latvia Anonymous Gamblers offers peer support through regular meetings.
  • Hotline Support: Call 116123 for immediate help with gambling-related issues.

18. Ireland:

Gambling Overview:

Ireland has a vibrant gambling industry, with both online and land-based options widely available. While the Gambling Control Bill aims to regulate the sector more tightly, problem gambling is a significant concern, particularly among younger adults.

Organizations Providing Help:

  • Problem Gambling Ireland: Provides information, self-help tools, and access to counselling services for those affected by gambling addiction.
  • Gamblers Anonymous Ireland (GA): A support group offering 12-step meetings and online support for problem gamblers.
  • The Rutland Centre: Offers residential and outpatient treatment programs for addiction, including gambling.

Recommendations:

  • Use Problem Gambling Ireland’s Tools: Access online self-help resources and seek referrals for counselling.
  • Join GA Meetings: Connect with peers through Gamblers Anonymous for recovery support.
  • Consider Professional Treatment: The Rutland Centre provides comprehensive treatment programs, including both inpatient and outpatient care.

19. Iceland:

Gambling Overview:

Iceland has strict gambling laws, with only limited forms of gambling, such as lotteries and sports betting, allowed. Despite these restrictions, gambling addiction still affects a portion of the population, particularly those involved in illegal online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Professional Help: Contact SÁÁ for individualized treatment plans or therapy.
  • Join Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous meetings offer peer-based support for recovery.
  • Use Addiction Counselling: Ráðgjafastofa provides professional counselling for gambling addiction.

20. Portugal:

Gambling Overview:

Portugal has legalized many forms of gambling, including online betting, lotteries, and casinos. Although regulated by the Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ), problem gambling, especially related to online platforms, remains a concern.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Call Linha Vida: Access immediate, free support via Portugal’s national helpline.
  • Seek Counselling: IAJ offers tailored therapy programs for gambling addicts.
  • Join GA Meetings: Find peer support and structured recovery through Gamblers Anonymous.

21. Ukraine:

Gambling Overview:

Ukraine legalized gambling in 2020 after a long ban. The industry includes online gambling, betting shops, and casinos, all regulated by the Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL). However, the rapid expansion of the gambling market has led to concerns over addiction.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Use the Gambling Helpline: Access immediate assistance for gambling addiction issues.
  • Seek Therapy: Many psychological support centres provide free or affordable treatment for gambling addiction.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Join Gamblers Anonymous for structured, peer-led recovery.

22. Croatia:

Gambling Overview:

Croatia has a well-regulated gambling market, including casinos, lotteries, and sports betting. While legal and regulated by the Ministry of Finance, the rise in online gambling has led to an increase in gambling-related issues.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Call the Gambling Helpline: Access immediate help for gambling-related issues.
  • Explore Therapy Options: Many psychological centres offer professional support and counselling.
  • Join Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous meetings provide structured peer support.

23. Greece:

Gambling Overview:

Greece has a strong gambling culture, with casinos, betting shops, and lotteries being popular. The Hellenic Gaming Commission oversees gambling activities, but concerns over problem gambling have grown, particularly with the availability of online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Help from KETHEA: This organization offers professional, free services for addiction, including gambling.
  • Join GA Meetings: Participate in Gamblers Anonymous support groups for peer-led recovery.
  • Use Online Resources: Gambling Therapy Greece offers remote support and resources.

24. Hungary:

Gambling Overview:

In Hungary, gambling is regulated by the Hungarian Gambling Supervisory Authority, and the industry includes lotteries, casinos, and sports betting. Although regulations are strict, online gambling has increased addiction cases.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Visit Blue Point: Seek therapy for gambling addiction through individual or group programs.
  • Join GA Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous offers peer-led recovery programs across Hungary.
  • Seek Mental Health Support: The Hungarian Mental Health Association provides holistic support for addiction-related mental health concerns.

25. Bulgaria:

Gambling Overview:

Bulgaria has legalized gambling, including online betting and casinos, all regulated by the State Gambling Commission. However, with the rise of online gambling, addiction rates have increased.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Contact the National Centre for Addiction: Seek therapy and counselling for gambling-related issues.
  • Join Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous meetings are available across Bulgaria for peer support.
  • Engage in Educational Programs: The Bulgarian Association for the Prevention of Addictions provides resources for prevention and recovery.

26. Switzerland:

Gambling Overview:

Switzerland has a highly regulated gambling market, including land-based casinos, lotteries, and online gambling, overseen by the Federal Gaming Board. Despite regulation, gambling addiction has become a concern, particularly with the growth of online platforms.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Contact Addiction Switzerland: Seek professional counselling and addiction treatment through Sucht Schweiz.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Join Gamblers Anonymous for peer support and structured recovery.
  • Join Self-Help Groups: SOS-Spielsucht offers self-help programs and advice for those affected by gambling addiction.

27. Romania:

Gambling Overview:

Romania has a large gambling industry, including casinos, sports betting, and online platforms, all regulated by the National Gambling Office (ONJN). Despite the regulations, problem gambling is an increasing concern, particularly with online betting.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Call the National Helpline: Seek immediate help for gambling-related issues.
  • Visit Aliat Centers: Access professional therapy and addiction support through this organization.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Engage in peer-led support through Gamblers Anonymous.

28. Lithuania:

Gambling Overview:

Lithuania’s gambling sector, which includes casinos and online betting, is regulated by the Gambling Supervision Authority. Problem gambling has become a significant concern, particularly with the expansion of online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Therapy: The National Gambling and Addiction Prevention Service offers specialized addiction treatment.
  • Join GA Meetings: Find peer support through Gamblers Anonymous’ structured recovery programs.
  • Consult a Psychologist: The Lithuanian Psychological Association can help with counselling for gambling addiction.

29. Luxembourg:

Gambling Overview:

Gambling in Luxembourg is tightly regulated, with only a few land-based casinos and lotteries allowed. The small gambling market still faces issues with gambling addiction, especially with the rise of cross-border and online gambling.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Contact Gambling Assistance Foundation: Seek professional support for gambling addiction through counselling and prevention programs.
  • Join Support Groups: Gamblers Anonymous meetings offer peer-led recovery programs across Luxembourg.
  • Seek Counselling: SuchtBerodung offers personalized therapy for addiction, including gambling.

30. Albania:

Gambling Overview:

Albania has one of the strictest gambling policies in Europe, having banned nearly all forms of gambling in 2019, including online betting, casinos, and betting shops. However, illegal gambling and offshore online platforms still contribute to gambling addiction concerns.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Use Online GA Groups: Participate in virtual peer support for gambling addiction.
  • Seek Professional Counselling: Visit local mental health clinics that provide addiction counselling.

31. Andorra:

Gambling Overview:

Andorra has a regulated gambling market that includes casinos and lotteries. Although the gambling industry is small, problem gambling exists, especially as the country attracts tourists to its gambling establishments.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

32. Armenia:

Gambling Overview:

Armenia has a legalized and regulated gambling market, including online betting, casinos, and lotteries. Despite regulations, problem gambling, especially online, is a growing concern.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

33. Bosnia and Herzegovina:

Gambling Overview:

Gambling is legal and widespread in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with lotteries, sports betting, and casinos regulated by the Federal Ministry of Finance. Gambling addiction is on the rise, particularly among young people.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Contact Udruženje Zavisnika o Kockanju: Participate in their addiction counselling programs.
  • Join GA Meetings: Find peer support through Gamblers Anonymous.
  • Seek Therapy: Many psychological centers offer professional help for gambling addiction.

34. Georgia:

Gambling Overview:

Georgia has a large and growing gambling industry, particularly focused on online gambling, betting shops, and casinos. Gambling addiction has become a significant issue, especially among young adults.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Visit an Addiction Center: Seek rehabilitation programs or therapy for gambling addiction.
  • Join GA Support Groups: Participate in Gamblers Anonymous meetings for peer support.
  • Seek Counselling: Many local psychologists specialize in addiction treatment.

35. Kosovo:

Gambling Overview:

Kosovo banned all gambling in 2019 after concerns about crime and gambling addiction. Despite the ban, illegal gambling continues to pose problems for individuals susceptible to addiction.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

36. Liechtenstein:

Gambling Overview:

Liechtenstein has a growing gambling industry, with casinos being legalized in recent years. Though small, the country faces challenges related to problem gambling, particularly with cross-border visitors.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

37. Malta:

Gambling Overview:

Malta is a global hub for online gambling operators, regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). While the country benefits from a thriving gambling industry, it also deals with rising rates of gambling addiction.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Help at Sedqa: Contact them for tailored addiction therapy and rehabilitation.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Participate in Gamblers Anonymous’ peer support groups for structured recovery.
  • Explore Counselling Options with Richmond Foundation: Access mental health support and counselling services.

38. Moldova:

Gambling Overview:

Moldova’s gambling industry is regulated, but the rise in online gambling has contributed to an increase in problem gambling cases, especially among the youth.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Seek Therapy: Utilize Moldova’s national mental health services for addiction treatment.
  • Join GA’s Online Meetings: Engage in virtual GA meetings for recovery support.
  • Visit a Psychological Support Center: Access professional help through local counselling services.

39. Monaco:

Gambling Overview:

Monaco is famous for its casinos, particularly the iconic Monte Carlo Casino. While gambling is a major draw for tourists, problem gambling does affect some of Monaco’s residents and visitors.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Contact Addiction Services: Seek counselling and therapy for gambling addiction in Monaco.
  • Join GA Meetings in France: Participate in Gamblers Anonymous sessions, either in person or online.
  • Explore Therapy Options: Monaco offers private psychological support for gambling addiction.

40. Montenegro:

Gambling Overview:

Montenegro has a regulated gambling industry that includes casinos, lotteries, and sports betting. Gambling addiction has been a growing concern, particularly with the increase in online platforms.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

  • Visit a Mental Health Center: Seek professional help for gambling addiction through local health services.
  • Attend GA Meetings: Engage in peer-supported recovery through Gamblers Anonymous.
  • Use Self-Exclusion Programs: Some online and land-based gambling services offer self-exclusion options.

41. North Macedonia:

Gambling Overview:

North Macedonia’s gambling sector is regulated and includes casinos, sports betting, and lotteries. Gambling addiction is a growing issue, particularly with the widespread availability of online platforms.

Organizations Providing Help:

Recommendations:

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