Where to Get Help for Gambling Addiction in Uganda
Gambling can be fun, but for some people, it becomes a problem. Some people lose control and keep gambling even when they are losing money, hurting their family, or feeling stressed.
This is called gambling addiction.
If gambling is making your life difficult, stressful, or unhappy, you are not alone. There are places where you can get help and support. We will show you where to find help in Uganda, and what you can do to take control of your gambling.
How to Know If You Have a Gambling Problem
It can be hard to know when gambling goes from fun to a problem. Here are some signs of gambling addiction:
❌ You keep gambling even when you lose money
❌ You hide your gambling from family or friends
❌ You borrow money to gamble
❌ You feel stressed, sad, or angry after gambling
❌ You skip work, school, or family events to gamble
❌ You try to stop but can’t
If you said yes to one or more of these signs, you may need help to stop or control your gambling.
Read more about signs of gambling addiction.
Who Can Help? – Support in Uganda
If gambling is causing problems in your life, there are organizations and people who can help. Below are some places where you can get free and confidential support.
📌 National Gaming Board Uganda (NGBU)
What they do:
- Regulates gambling in Uganda
- Provides advice on responsible gambling
- Can help you self-exclude from casinos and betting shops
📍 Website: www.ngb.go.ug
📞 Phone: +256 414 255 673
📌 Rehab Centers & Counseling Services in Uganda
Many counseling centers and rehab facilities in Uganda help people with addiction, including gambling addiction.
📍 Butabika National Referral Hospital – Offers mental health support, including gambling addiction treatment.
📞 Phone: +256 414 504 376
📍 Serene Rehabilitation Centre – Provides therapy and counseling for addiction.
📞 Phone: +256 785 535 376
If you need support and counseling, you can visit a local hospital or health center and ask for help.
📌 International Helplines (Online & Free Support)
If you prefer anonymous online support, you can talk to experts at these international organizations:
🌍 GamCare (UK-based, Free Chat Support)
📍 Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
💬 Free Live Chat Available
🌍 BeGambleAware
📍 Website: www.begambleaware.org
📞 Offers free gambling help and self-help guides
These services are confidential and available 24/7.
What Can You Do to Stop Gambling?
If you think you have a gambling problem, here are some steps to take control:
✔️ Talk to Someone – Tell a friend, family member, or counselor about your problem. Talking helps!
✔️ Set Limits – Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. Set a budget and time limit for gambling.
✔️ Take a Break – Stay away from gambling for a few weeks or months to see if you feel better.
✔️ Self-Exclude – Ask a casino or betting shop to ban you from playing. The National Gaming Board Uganda (NGBU) can help with this.
✔️ Find a New Hobby – Try something new and fun to keep your mind busy, like sports, reading, or spending time with friends.
Read more about responsible gambling.
Helping a Friend or Family Member with Gambling Addiction
If someone you love has a gambling problem, it can be hard to know what to do. Here’s how you can support them:
✅ Talk to them kindly – Don’t judge or blame them. Help them understand that they have a problem.
✅ Encourage them to get help – Share the support options listed above.
✅ Help them manage money – If they ask for money, be careful. Don’t support their gambling habits.
✅ Be patient – Overcoming gambling addiction takes time and effort.
Remember: Gambling addiction is a real problem, but help is available.
Final Thoughts – You Are Not Alone!
Gambling addiction can feel overwhelming, but there is hope. Many people have quit gambling and improved their lives with the right help.
🎯 If you think you have a gambling problem, take action today.
🎯 If someone you love is struggling, offer support and encourage them to get help.
Gambling should be fun, not stressful.
If it’s causing problems, reach out for support and take control of your future. You can do it! 💪🎰
📞 Need Help Now? Contact:
📌 National Gaming Board Uganda (NGBU) – www.ngb.go.ug
📌 GamCare (Free Online Chat Support) – www.gamcare.org.uk
📌 BeGambleAware (Self-Help Guides) – www.begambleaware.org
💡 Remember: Help is always available.