When a parent has a gambling addiction, it can have a serious impact on the entire family, including any children. A significant amount of money may be spent on gambling, sometimes leaving little or no financial resources for essential needs like food, clothing, or education. Children and adults who are negatively affected by someone else’s gambling are sometimes called Affected Others.
Living in a household with a parent with a gambling addiction can be distressing and chaotic. Children in these environments may face a range of issues, including:
- Emotional and psychological harm, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Physical risks, including neglect or abuse (verbal or physical), and exposure to unsafe adults or environments.
- Behavioural problems, such as difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, running away, skipping school, or involvement in crime and substance misuse.
In some cases, children are left to care for themselves or their siblings, take on household responsibilities, or manage finances—roles that place an unfair burden on them and can interfere with their education and well-being.
Furthermore, other adults in the household will also be negatively affected by the person’s gambling addiction. The other adults may experience anxiety, depression, stress and abuse, which could add to the harm experienced by children in the household.
Children of problem gamblers are at increased risk of:
- Self-harm and suicidal thoughts
- Trust issues and strained relationships
- Developing gambling issues themselves later in life (intergenerational transmission)
- Using alcohol or drugs, accumulating debts, and experiencing parental separation
It is crucial for parents experiencing a gambling addiction to seek help—not only for their own recovery but also to protect their children from harm and ensure a stable and nurturing home environment.