Struggling with gambling? You’re not alone—and help is out there. Whether you’re searching for Gambling Anonymous near me or simply want to understand the recovery options, it starts with knowing what’s available and how meetings work.
Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offers free peer support meetings, both online and in-person, for those struggling with compulsive gambling. This guide explains how to find meetings near you, what to expect, and alternative support options like therapy, self-exclusion tools, and regional hotlines in the U.S., UK, and Ireland.
Contents
What Is Gamblers Anonymous?
Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is a 12-step peer support fellowship for people suffering from compulsive gambling. Founded in 1957, GA isn’t a religious group—it’s about recovery through shared experience. Membership is open to anyone who “has a desire to stop gambling.”
How to Find “Gamblers Anonymous Near Me”
1. Use the Official GA Meeting Directory
Visit the official GA website’s “Find a Meeting” page to search by city, state, or ZIP code. You can also filter options like in-person, virtual, or phone meetings.
2. Call the GA Hotlines
- U.S. national hotline: 855‑2CALLGA (855‑222‑5542)
- International Service Office: (909) 931‑9056
800-Gambler
3. Regional Councils and Charities
In many areas, local gambling councils list GA meetings:
- New Jersey: Council on Compulsive Gambling offers a search tool for in-person and virtual GA meetings.
- Pennsylvania and elsewhere: Advisory groups typically provide directories and self-help resources.
4. International Listings
GA operates worldwide. For example:
- Scotland: Fellowship meetings across the country
- England & Wales: Physical and online meetings available
- Ireland: GA meetings in Dublin and beyond
What to Expect at a GA Meeting
Meetings typically last 60–90 minutes, with formats ranging from “open” (anyone can attend) to “closed” (only for those seeking recovery).
The program encourages:
- Admitting no control over gambling
- Working through personal inventories and amends
- Leaning on peer support to stay on track
GA’s strength is community. People share how gambling impacted them and support one another in staying abstinent.
Why GA Helps
- Peer support: You’re seen. You’re not judged.
- Structure: The 12-step approach offers a clear path forward.
- Access: Meeting options are flexible—online, phone, and in-person make it easier to join.
Still, only about 8% of attendees remain abstinent after a year—a reminder: recovery often takes ongoing effort and sometimes additional support.
Other Support Options
Self‑Exclusion Programs
Many jurisdictions offer self-exclusion tools, banning you voluntarily from gambling venues or online platforms. It’s not foolproof, but it can help reduce temptation.
Therapy & Professional Help
Counseling, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has proven effective in treating gambling disorder. Medication and ongoing therapy sessions may also be useful.
Specialized Support
In the UK, the Gordon Moody charity runs a women-only treatment center, providing therapy, life skills, and peer support in a safe space.
Quick-Access Summary
| Support Type | Access | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Gamblers Anonymous (GA) | Online directory, hotlines | Peer-based recovery |
| Self‑exclusion | Gambling platforms, venues | Removing temptation |
| Counseling & Therapy | Mental health providers | Deeper treatment & relapse prevention |
| Gender-specific programs | Charities (e.g. Gordon Moody) | Women needing tailored support |
Disclaimer
Not professional advice. This article is informational only and not a substitute for professional medical or mental health treatment. If you or someone you know struggles with gambling, consider seeking help from licensed professionals, therapists, counselors, or your local GA group. If at risk of harm, please contact emergency services immediately.
Final Thoughts
Looking up “Gamblers Anonymous near me” takes courage—recognizing gambling has become a problem is the first step toward recovery. With GA’s region-based and online meeting options, additional therapy options like CBT, self-exclusion tools, and specialized support centers, help is within reach.
You’re not alone. Help is waiting.
FAQ: Gamblers Anonymous – USA, UK & Ireland
🇺🇸 USA: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a national Gamblers Anonymous in the U.S.?
Yes. The official site gamblersanonymous.org lists nationwide in-person and virtual meetings. You can search by state or ZIP code.
Q: How do I join a GA meeting in the U.S.?
Just show up. GA meetings are free, anonymous, and open to anyone who wants to stop gambling. No registration required.
Q: Can I attend meetings online or by phone?
Yes. U.S. members can join Zoom or phone meetings daily. Details are posted on the official site under “Meeting Directory.”
Q: What hotline can I call for gambling help in the U.S.?
Call 855-2CALLGA (855-222-5542) or your state’s gambling helpline. Many offer 24/7 support.
Q: What if I need more than meetings?
Professional counseling and inpatient rehab programs are available. Start with ncpgambling.org for state-by-state resources.
🇬🇧 UK: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Gamblers Anonymous operate in the UK?
Yes. You can find in-person and Zoom meetings throughout England, Scotland, and Wales via gamblersanonymous.org.uk.
Q: Are there GA meetings for families?
Yes. Gam-Anon groups run alongside GA and offer support to partners, parents, and friends of problem gamblers.
Q: Is GA free in the UK?
Absolutely. There are no fees or dues. Meetings are funded by voluntary contributions.
Q: Are there women-only meetings in the UK?
Some regions host women-only or mixed-support meetings. Check the listings or email a local contact from the GA UK site.
Q: What other help is available in the UK?
You can also access help via:
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
- Gordon Moody: Residential therapy for all people
- GamCare: Live chat, counseling, and self-help tools
🇮🇪 Ireland: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I find Gamblers Anonymous meetings in Ireland?
Visit gamblersanonymous.ie to find meetings by county. Both in-person and online formats are available.
Q: Are there phone meetings in Ireland?
Yes. Phone-based meetings occur daily. Call (01) 907 9710 and enter Pin: 446112# at scheduled times.
Q: Can I attend anonymously?
Yes. All meetings are confidential. First names only—no records, no judgment.
Q: Are there services for families?
Yes. Family and friends can attend Gam-Anon meetings, some of which are also hosted in Ireland or virtually.
Q: What Irish organizations help with gambling addiction?
In addition to GA:
- GamblingCare.ie: 1800 936 725 (free counseling)
- Dunlewey Addiction Services: In-person sessions across Ireland
- Crosscare & Rutland Centre: Offer therapy and residential support
📌 General Notes
- GA meetings are not therapy, but they provide vital peer support.
- Gam-Anon is a separate group for those affected by someone else’s gambling.
- All three countries offer virtual GA meetings, making support accessible even if you’re in a rural area or prefer privacy.
⚠️ Bet Responsibly!
Disclaimer: Gambling should be treated as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Please bet responsibly. If you ever feel that gambling is becoming a problem or affecting your life, relationships, or finances, it’s time to step back and seek help.
Must be 18+ (or 21+ in some regions) to participate where legal. Always follow the laws in your jurisdiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, contact a support service near you:
- USA: Call 1‑800‑GAMBLER or visit ncpgambling.org
- UK: Call 0808 8020 133 or visit begambleaware.org
- Ireland: Call 1800 936 725 or visit gamblingcare.ie
You are not alone—support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
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