What is gambling harm?

Gambling harm is any kind of negative impact caused by gambling. It doesn’t just affect the person who gambles – it can also hurt their family, friends, workplace and community.

Gambling harm can happen even if someone isn’t addicted. It can start small and grow over time, especially when gambling is used to cope with stress, trauma, money problems or boredom.

Gambling harm isn’t fussy  – it will take anyone.

Gambling harm for individuals

People who gamble may experience these things:

• Money problems – losing savings, falling into debt or struggling to pay bills.
• Mental distress – feeling ashamed, out-of-control, sad and hopeless or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
• Relationship stress – hiding gambling, lying or arguing with loved ones.
• Work or study difficulties – being distracted, missing deadlines or losing motivation.
• Physical health impacts – poor sleep, stress-related illness or neglecting self-care.

Even people who gamble occasionally can be affected by gambling harm – especially if they’re spending more than they can afford or chasing losses.

Gambling harm for families and whānau

Gambling can cause serious harm to the people closest to the person who gambles:

• Broken trust – secrecy and dishonesty can damage relationships.
• Emotional distress – partners, children and whānau may feel worried, angry or helpless.
• Financial strain – families may lose money or assets or struggle to afford essentials.
• Family violence – gambling can increase the risk of conflict and harm in the home.
• Impact on children – kids may experience neglect, instability or emotional trauma.

Research shows that, for every person harmed by gambling, at least six others are affected.

Gambling harm for communities and society

Gambling harm has ripple effects – it doesn’t stop at the household and can affect whole communities:

• Increased demand on services – more people needing help from health, social and justice systems.
• Crime – gambling can be linked to theft, fraud or organised crime.
• Workplace impacts – this can mean lost productivity, absenteeism or misuse of funds.
• Social inequality – gambling often targets and harms people in low-income areas.
• Cultural harm – gambling can disrupt traditional values and community wellbeing.