How to Help a Loved One

Gambling: Help and Referral

This phone helpline is staffed by counsellors and offers 24/7 confidential, free and bilingual service everywhere in Québec. Call 1-800-461-0140 or chat on aidejeu.ca.

Health and psychosocial counselling services

You can contact the Info-Social service professionals anytime by calling 811 and choosing option 2. Your family doctor or CLSC can also support you through the process.

Bring up the topic with the person you’re trying to help at a time when you’re fully available to listen, and choose a place where you’ll be undisturbed.

Tell the person you’re not judging them and avoid lecturing. Use “I.”

Let them know you care about them and worry that their gambling may affect their loved ones and yourself.

Here are some examples to break the ice

“I care about you and want to make sure you’re doing okay. I noticed that gambling seems to be taking more of your time and was wondering how you felt about that.”

“I’m worried about you and want you to know that I’m here for you. I noticed that you seem stressed about gambling and was wondering how I could help you.”

Take the time to listen to the person and let them react to what you say—even if it makes them angry.

Suggest that you spend time together, offer your support in their search for resources and invite them to activities that aren’t games of chance.