Gam-Anon Guide: What it does, who it's for, how it works
Published:
Mar 5, 2025
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11:48 a.m.
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Updated:
Mar 6, 2025
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10:06 a.m.
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Key Points:
Gam-Anon is a network of support groups for individuals affected by others’ gambling addiction
Gam-Anon is very different and separate from Gamblers Anonymous
Gam-Anon is free and follows a 12-step model similar to those of other addiction support groups
As gambling addiction rates increase, it is important that affected individuals who are friends or family members of those with gambling addiction also have specialized support
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Founded in 1960, Gam-Anon is a fellowship of men and women who are the spouses, relatives or close friends of those who struggle with compulsive gambling. Gam-Anon has over 500 in-person groups set up today throughout the United States, Canada and internationally. Gam-Anon works to support those who are affected by their loved ones gambling addiction and learn how they can be a support to their loved ones but also create healthy habits that support their own mental health. Gam-Anon follows a 12-step model similar to those of other addiction support groups.
What is Gam-Anon? Who is it for?
Gam-Anon is a network of groups that provides support and resources for the friends and families – at times known as “affected individuals” – of those who struggle with gambling addiction. Gam-Anon also provides educational material for professionals who treat gambling addiction and work with the loved ones of those with gambling addiction. Information available on the website includes:
Meeting directory
Literature
Hotline numbers
Personal stories
How does the Gam-Anon program work?
Gam-Anon follows a 12-step self-help model that promotes fellowship, guidance and support through shared experiences of having a loved one with a gambling addiction. Gam-Anon helps individuals cope with the stressors of gambling addiction ramifications, such as financial worries, relationship struggles and feelings of hopelessness. Gam-Anon is free to join and open to both males and females.
How popular is Gam-Anon?
Gambling addiction is a worldwide problem with tens of millions worldwide suffering from their compulsive gambling. There are also millions of family members and friends who are adversely impacted by gambling addiction behaviors.
Gam-Anon offers meetings all over the United States, Canada and around the world. In locations where in-person meetings are not possible, Zoom and virtual meeting options may also be available. The Gam-Anon website offers a meeting directory so that individuals can find a meeting that works for them.
Is Gam-Anon the same as Gamblers Anonymous?
Despite their similar-sounding names, Gam-Anon and Gamblers Anonymous are two very different and separate organizations. Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is specifically for those who are suffering from gambling addiction and are looking for support to stop or reduce their gambling behavior. Gam-Anon is an organization that provides support specifically for those who are affected by others’ compulsive gambling behaviors. The two meeting types differ based on the audiences that they support and are designed to help.
Other support options for individuals impacted by another’s gambling
Gam-Anon is just one resource for those who are impacted by someone else’s gambling habits. Someone may choose to participate in individual, group or family therapy, led by a trained professional, to receive additional guidance and support. Virtual therapy is another option that increases accessibility to therapy without the barrier of time constraints or location.
Birches Health offers specialized virtual counseling with therapists trained in treating gambling addiction and supporting individuals affected by others’ gambling. Birches also offers free resources and confidential referrals for loved ones. To learn more you can book an appointment, call (833) 483-3838 or email help@bircheshealth.com.
Comparing Gam-Anon and Birches Health
There isn’t one right way or choice when it comes to receiving support for the unintended consequences of living alongside someone who struggles with gambling addiction. There are multiple options that offer various levels of support and the type of help required will depend on the individual. Gam-Anon and Birches Health offer two different paths of support. Gam-Anon provides a group approach while Birches offers primarily individual, specialized therapy with a licensed counselor.
It’s also worth noting that it does NOT need to be a one-or-the-other decision. Birches Health counselors have found that group support can be a positive, complementary part of a holistic treatment plan, on top of one-on-one counseling.
Advantages of Gam-Anon
There are benefits to self-help group environments like Gam-Anon. One of the most emphasized advantages of Gam-Anon is the shared experiences and camaraderie that is formed in this type of setting. Group members provide mutual support and guidance with others who are living the same experience as them.
Advantages of Birches Health
Virtual therapy through Birches Health offers individuals support from the comfort of their own home, which also provides greater flexibility in scheduling and access to specialized treatment that may not otherwise be available near them. Birches Health offers one-on-one counseling that may feel more comfortable for someone to discuss personal struggles, versus a group setting like Gam-Anon.
Additional resources and information about Gambling Addiction and its impact on others
Gambling addiction can be difficult to identify and understand, due to the complex nature of the symptoms and the impact it has on others. Learning more about gambling addiction, signs of compulsive gambling and treatment options, can help an individual support their loved ones and themselves during the recovery process.
