Gambling: the expert view

Liz Karter is founder and director at Level Ground Therapy, a private Harley Street and online practice, as well as a leading expert in gambling addiction among women.

What exactly is a gambling addiction?

Gambling is one of the most misunderstood addictions. At first it can feel like a great way of coping. The very appeal of gambling is that it’s absorbing, and when panic sets in, we see a cycle of loss-chasing followed by the worsening of any mental health problems that a woman was trying to medicate in the first place.

How does gambling impact mental health?

Day-to-day routines will likely suffer, leading to an increase in stress and anxiety that can result in migraines, panic attacks, stomach problems, ulcers and even heart issues. While the stigma of being a female gambler – who may be neglecting caring duties – can also leave some women too ashamed to seek help.

How can you tell if it’s time to seek help?

Regularly overspending on gambling could indicate a problem. Using a gambling app to manage stress is another red flag. You can use software to block access to all UK gambling websites, but I encourage using this alongside professional help; restricting access will not take away the craving.