Practical help, right now
Whether you need immediate support, want to self-exclude, or are looking for professional help — start here.
If you need help right now
If you are in crisis, experiencing thoughts of self-harm, or need immediate support, please reach out:
[ADD_SUPPORT_CONTACT_BY_COUNTRY]
These services are confidential and available to help you.
Steps you can take today
Acknowledge where you are
Recognizing that gambling has become a problem is a powerful first step. You don't need to have all the answers right now.
Block access to gambling
Delete gambling apps, self-exclude from platforms, and ask someone you trust to help you set up barriers.
Talk to someone
A trusted friend, family member, or a professional. Breaking the silence is often the hardest but most important step.
Secure your finances
Limit access to cash and credit. Consider giving temporary control to someone you trust or setting up spending alerts.
Reach out for professional help
Therapists, counselors, and support groups specialize in gambling problems. You don't have to figure this out alone.
Self-exclusion programs
Self-exclusion is a voluntary agreement to ban yourself from gambling venues and online platforms. It's one of the most effective immediate steps you can take.
Germany: OASIS Self-Exclusion System
OASIS (Online Gambling Self-Exclusion System) is Germany's centralized self-exclusion system. Once registered, you are blocked from all licensed online gambling providers in Germany.
- You can request self-exclusion through any licensed gambling provider
- The exclusion applies across all licensed providers nationwide
- Minimum exclusion period is typically one year
- The system is managed by the gambling regulatory authority (GGL)
Germany: Licensed Operators (Whitelist)
The official whitelist shows which gambling operators are legally licensed in Germany. Only licensed operators are required to enforce OASIS self-exclusion.
View the official whitelistHelplines and support organizations
These organizations provide free, confidential support for gambling problems:
Germany
Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Free gambling helpline
0800 1 37 27 00
Free, anonymous, available Mon-Thu 10-22, Fri-Sun 10-18
[ADD_SUPPORT_CONTACT_BY_COUNTRY]
Additional German support resources to be added
[TBD]
[TBD]
International
[ADD_SUPPORT_CONTACT_BY_COUNTRY]
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have a gambling problem?
If gambling is causing you stress, financial problems, relationship difficulties, or if you find it hard to stop or control how much you gamble, these may be signs of a problem. You don't need to hit 'rock bottom' to seek help.
Can I recover from gambling addiction?
Yes. Many people recover from gambling problems and lead fulfilling lives. Recovery looks different for everyone — it may involve professional therapy, support groups, digital tools, or a combination. The important thing is to start.
What if I've tried to stop before and failed?
Setbacks are a normal part of the recovery process — they don't mean you've failed. Each attempt teaches you something. What matters is that you keep trying and seek the support that works for you.
Should I tell my family?
This is a personal decision. Sharing with trusted people can provide emotional support and accountability. But it's important to do it when you feel ready and in a way that feels safe for you.
Is online gambling more addictive than offline gambling?
Online gambling can be particularly challenging because of its constant accessibility, speed of play, and immersive design. The ability to gamble 24/7 from any device removes many natural friction points that exist with physical venues.
How can self-exclusion help me?
Self-exclusion creates a concrete barrier between you and gambling. While it's not a complete solution on its own, it removes the option in moments of vulnerability. Combined with other support, it can be a powerful tool.