Resources for Gambling Addiction! Where to Find Support and Counseling in Asia

Gambling addiction is a serious issue that can have devastating effects on an individual’s life, including financial ruin, strained relationships, and mental health challenges. Recognizing the problem is the first step toward recovery, but finding the right support and counseling is crucial for long-term success. In Asia, various organizations, helplines, and support groups are available to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

1. Singapore

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)

• Overview: The NCPG is the main body responsible for addressing gambling-related issues in Singapore. They provide a range of services, including a helpline, counseling, and support for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.
• Services:
  • 24-hour helpline: 1800-6-668-668
  • Online self-assessment tools
  • Counseling and support services
  • Exclusion programs for individuals who want to restrict their gambling activities
• Website: NCPG Singapore

WE CARE Community Services

• Overview: WE CARE offers counseling and support services for individuals dealing with various addictions, including gambling. They provide therapy sessions, support groups, and recovery programs.
• Services:
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Family support programs
  • Recovery and rehabilitation programs
• Website: WE CARE Community Services

2. Hong Kong

Caritas Addicted Gamblers Counseling Centre

• Overview: Caritas runs a specialized counseling center for individuals struggling with gambling addiction in Hong Kong. They offer a wide range of services, including individual counseling, support groups, and family counseling.
• Services:
  • 24-hour helpline: 1834 633
  • Individual and family counseling
  • Support groups and workshops
  • Community education programs
• Website: Caritas Hong Kong

Tung Wah Group of Hospitals – Even Centre

• Overview: The Even Centre is part of the Tung Wah Group and offers services specifically for problem gamblers. They provide counseling, support groups, and community outreach programs.
• Services:
  • Counseling for problem gamblers and their families
  • Support groups and peer support
  • Public education and outreach initiatives
• Website: Tung Wah Group of Hospitals

3. Japan

Japan Gamblers’ Anonymous

• Overview: Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is a global organization that offers peer support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. In Japan, GA has several groups that meet regularly to provide support and share experiences.
• Services:
  • Regular group meetings
  • Peer support and sharing sessions
  • Resources and literature on gambling addiction
• Website: Gamblers Anonymous Japan (Japanese only)

Recovery Support Network (RSN)

• Overview: RSN provides support and counseling for individuals with various addictions, including gambling. They offer online and in-person support, including counseling and recovery programs.
• Services:
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Online support groups
  • Educational workshops and seminars
• Website: Recovery Support Network (Japanese only)

4. South Korea

Korea Center on Gambling Problems (KCGP)

• Overview: KCGP is the primary organization in South Korea addressing gambling addiction. They offer a wide range of services, including counseling, education, and support for individuals and families.
• Services:
  • 24-hour helpline: 1336 (Korean only)
  • Online counseling services
  • In-person counseling and therapy
  • Education and prevention programs
• Website: Korea Center on Gambling Problems (Korean only)

Korea Association for Addiction Prevention (KAAP)

• Overview: KAAP focuses on preventing and treating various addictions, including gambling. They offer counseling services, support groups, and educational programs to help individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.
• Services:
  • Counseling and therapy for addiction
  • Support groups and peer support
  • Educational programs for prevention and awareness
• Website: KAAP (Korean only)

5. Philippines

Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) – Responsible Gaming Program

• Overview: PAGCOR offers a Responsible Gaming Program that provides resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. They offer counseling, self-exclusion programs, and referrals to professional services.
• Services:
  • Responsible gaming counseling
  • Self-exclusion programs
  • Referrals to support services
• Website: PAGCOR Responsible Gaming

Life Change Recovery Center

• Overview: Life Change Recovery Center is a facility in the Philippines that offers treatment and rehabilitation for various addictions, including gambling. They provide a holistic approach to recovery, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Services:
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Rehabilitation programs
  • Family therapy and support
• Website: Life Change Recovery Center

6. Macau

Sheng Kung Hui Macau Social Services Coordination Office

• Overview: This organization provides counseling and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction in Macau. They offer a range of services, including counseling, support groups, and outreach programs.
• Services:
  • Counseling for problem gamblers and their families
  • Support groups and workshops
  • Community outreach and education programs
• Website: Sheng Kung Hui Macau

Macau Gaming Industry Employees Home Integrated Services Centre

• Overview: This center offers support and counseling services for individuals affected by gambling addiction, particularly those working in the gaming industry. They provide confidential counseling, support groups, and educational resources.
• Services:
  • Confidential counseling and therapy
  • Support groups for individuals and families
  • Educational workshops and prevention programs
• Website: Macau Gaming Industry Employees Home

7. Malaysia

Gamblers Rehabilitation Centre Malaysia (GRCM)

• Overview: GRCM offers support and counseling for individuals struggling with gambling addiction in Malaysia. They provide a range of services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.
• Services:
  • Individual and group counseling
  • Support groups and peer support
  • Rehabilitation and recovery programs
• Website: GRCM (Malaysian only)

Befrienders Malaysia

• Overview: While not specifically focused on gambling, Befrienders Malaysia offers emotional support and counseling for individuals facing various challenges, including addiction. They provide a confidential helpline and support services.
• Services:
  • 24-hour helpline: +603-7956 8145
  • Emotional support and counseling
  • Referrals to addiction services
• Website: Befrienders Malaysia

Taking the First Step Toward Recovery

Gambling addiction is a challenging condition, but with the right support and resources, recovery is possible. In Asia, a wide range of organizations and services are available to help individuals and families affected by gambling addiction. Whether you or a loved one is struggling, reaching out to one of these resources can be the first step toward regaining control and rebuilding a healthy, fulfilling life.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is facing a gambling problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of these organizations for the support and counseling needed to start the journey toward recovery.