Regain Control of Your Gambling Addiction
Table of Contents
If you feel that gambling addiction is starting to control your life, or the life of someone you love, you’re not alone. Many people across Ireland struggle to stop gambling, even when it causes financial stress, a relationship breakdown, or emotional turmoil. What might begin as a source of excitement can quickly become destructive, harming those involved. When willpower alone isn’t enough, professional treatment can make a difference.
Smarmore Castle offers a comprehensive residential treatment programme for gambling rehab, Ireland. Our expert clinical team works closely with patients to uncover the root causes of their gambling behaviour and deliver personalised care in a secure, therapeutic environment. Whether you’re reaching out for yourself or on behalf of a loved one, we’re here to help.
What Is Gambling Rehab?
Gambling rehab is a structured, evidence-based treatment programme for individuals struggling with compulsive or problem gambling. The Smarmore Castle approach combines individual therapy, group therapy, and complementary treatments to help you learn tools and strategies to support you on the psychological, emotional, and behavioural aspects of gambling addiction.
Our residential programmes include round-the-clock clinical support, personalised care plans, and a full daily schedule designed to promote overall health and well-being. Smarmore Castle offers a safe space for people to break the cycle of addictive behaviour and begin their recovery with the help and support they need.
Why Treatment for Gambling Addiction Matters
Problem gambling doesn’t look the same for everyone. For some, it begins with chasing the losses of casual gambling or gambling to cope with negative emotions such as stress or sadness. For others, it’s about the desired excitement and thrill that comes from taking risks. Whatever the reason, gambling on a casual basis can quickly spiral into a behavioural addiction with serious consequences, leading to money problems and even relationship issues.
Being preoccupied with gambling can lead to serious financial losses. Losing money gambling could even lead to you gambling money that was set aside to pay bills or support the household. The resulting financial damage, secrecy, and emotional strain can create negative consequences not only for the gambler but also for their family members, loved ones, and even wider public health.
Gambling addiction is a serious behavioural disorder that can lead a person to exhibit recognisable gambling behaviour. The World Health Organization classifies gambling disorder as a recognised mental health condition (as it is written in the DSM-5).1
A first survey in Ireland on gambling conducted on patients between 2019 and 2020, found that around 90,000 adults are low-risk gamblers, 35,000 are moderate-risk gamblers, and 12,000 adults are problem gamblers.2
In Ireland, it is estimated that around 1 in 30 adults in Ireland are experiencing gambling problems, and a further 279,000 adults show moderate evidence of problem gambling. Studies suggest Irish adults bet more per capita than any other country in Europe. With the rise of online gambling platforms, more young people are becoming involved. More than one-in-five 16-year-olds gambled between 2022 and 2023.3,4
Left untreated, gambling can increase and get worse. It can lead to bankruptcy, legal problems or desperate financial situations, depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and even suicide attempts.
What To Expect From a Gambling Rehab Programme
Gambling rehab offers you or your loved one a chance to break from the addiction. For many people with a gambling problem, rehab is a crucial intervention step in treatment that helps restore balance, purpose, and hope. At Smarmore Castle, our evidence-based approach equips you with the tools needed to understand your gambling behaviour and develop the strategies for recovery that can be implemented throughout your life. Rehab can help you:
- Break the compulsive cycle of gambling.
- Address underlying mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, depression, or trauma.
- Learn healthy coping mechanisms and relapse prevention techniques.
- Rebuild relationships through family therapy.
- Develop strategies for managing money and financial recovery.
- Heal in a calm, structured environment away from gambling triggers.
These benefits extend beyond your time in treatment. They lay the groundwork for a sustainable recovery, helping you to rebuild your life and implement the tools that aim to help you avoid relapse in the future. To find out more about our gambling rehab programme, contact a member of our team today on +353 41 986 5080.
Gambling Rehab Programme at Smarmore Castle
As one of Ireland’s leading addiction centres, Smarmore Castle provides addiction treatment services designed for people affected by gambling. Whether you’re a problem gambler yourself or worried about a loved one’s gambling addiction, our programme is equipped to provide both immediate and long-term support.
Patients can benefit from:
- Care from a multidisciplinary team including psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, and peer support workers.
- Integration of a 12 Step programme and support groups the same as those you might access after rehab.
- A focus on abstinence-based recovery and emotional well-being.
- Holistic therapies such as equine therapy, fitness, and mindfulness.
If you seek treatment for gambling addiction, the team at Smarmore Castle creates a recovery environment that prioritises dignity, compassion, and evidence-based care. We are here to support you.
Free Gambling Addiction Assessment
It can be hard to reach out for help. That’s why the team at Smarmore Castle offers a free and confidential gambling addiction assessment. This initial consultation helps us understand your situation and provides us with more information on your medical history and personal circumstances so we can recommend an appropriate treatment plan that includes residential treatment, family support, or continuing care.
Our goal is to support you through every stage of your recovery journey.
Book An Assessment
If you are struggling with gambling addiction, book an assessment before attending gambling rehab.
Common Types of Gambling Addiction Programme
The common types of gambling rehab programmes include:
-
Residential programmes (28, 60, 90 days)
A residential and inpatient gambling rehab centre provides a safe, supportive environment where you can fully focus on your recovery. Living on-site means you’re away from everyday pressures, giving you the space and calm needed to start rebuilding your life.
-
One-to-one counselling and group therapy
Counselling and psychotherapy are essential parts of gambling addiction treatment programmes. Talking with a qualified therapist, either one-to-one or in a group, helps you understand why taking part in gambling activities has become a coping mechanism and teaches you new ways of managing stress, emotions, and relationships.
-
Complementary therapies to support mind and body
Treatment at some centres combines evidence-based therapies with complementary therapies that promote your overall health and well-being for a holistic approach to treatment. Patients can often access activities such as aquatherapy, equine therapy, or the gym to complement their personalised treatment programme.
-
Long-term aftercare planning and relapse prevention
If continuing care is offered after leaving rehab, patients will receive a personalised aftercare plan for relapse prevention and are welcome to attend aftercare group therapy sessions, which are sometimes available for 12 months after treatment. This promotes a commitment to recovery and provides a place for you to build connection and community after rehab.
Each of these options is integrated into a personalised plan designed to support your mental, emotional, and financial recovery from gambling-related issues. By combining professional expertise with compassionate care, we help you build a foundation for a healthier, more stable future.
At Smarmore Castle, we understand that every journey to recovery is unique. That’s why we offer a broad range of treatment services, designed to address the diverse needs of individuals struggling with gambling problems. These options, which include aftercare, are tailored to provide both immediate support and long-term strategies for maintaining abstinence from gambling.
Find Us
Smarmore Castle Clinic, Near Ardee, County Louth, Ireland A92 YY22
-
How to Find a Gambling Addiction Treatment Centre Near You
Whether you’re struggling with compulsive gambling, trading apps, cryptocurrency gambling or online gambling, choosing the right rehab centre is a vital step toward recovery. Choosing the right gambling rehab centre near your location is an important decision. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Search Online for Gambling Rehab Centres: Use phrases like “gambling rehab near me” or “gambling recovery centre Ireland” to explore nearby treatment options. Most centres provide detailed websites that outline their approach and facilities.
- Explore Private Alcohol Rehab Clinics: Private clinics often offer tailored treatment plans and a high level of care to help you stop gambling. If you’re looking for age-specific or gender-specific support, try searching terms like “senior gambling rehab near me” or “women-only gambling treatment Ireland.”
- Ask About the Length of Stay: Rehab programmes can vary in length and depend on the individual. Some centres offer set durations such as 28, 60, or 90 days, while others provide flexible plans based on your progress and needs.
- Check for Specialist Programmes: Ask if the centre provides services like dual diagnosis care (for co-occurring mental health issues), family therapy, or trauma-informed therapy. These can play a key role in helping individuals quit drinking.
- Check Accreditation and Staff Expertise: Choose a clinic that’s regulated by a respected health body and staffed by experienced professionals. Accreditation shows that the service follows best practices and meets high standards of care. Learn more about why you should choose Smarmore Castle or contact a member of our team.
Contact Smarmore Castle Residential Gambling Rehab
Smarmore Castle is located in County Louth, Ireland, just one hour from Dublin and Belfast. Set within private grounds and peaceful countryside, our residential rehab centre offers a discreet and supportive environment where you can begin your recovery journey.
To learn more about our alcohol, drug, and gambling addiction treatment programmes, call us today on +353 41 986 5080. Our friendly team will answer your questions and help you take the next step towards a healthier future.
Private Gambling Rehab Programme
Smarmore Castle offers free private gambling addiction assessments to help you take the first step towards recovery. We are committed to offering confidential support in a safe, private environment. Our team of experienced professionals will talk to you to understand your personal challenges and provide guidance on the best gambling treatment options.
Our team will also provide detailed information on our residential rehab costs. Call us today to begin your recovery on +353 41 986 5080.
Download our Brochure
Personalised Treatment Plan
Gambling behaviour is complex and influenced by addictive disorders, risk factors like past trauma or substance misuse, and financial pressures such as gambling money meant for essentials. During Smarmore Castle’s gambling rehab programme, we aim to equip each patient with tools for meaningful change, grounded in both clinical best practices and real-world support.
Every patient receives a tailored treatment plan that considers their history, needs, and goals. Our initial assessment includes diagnostic screening by a qualified mental health professional, followed by a collaborative treatment plan combining cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), 12 Step facilitation, and a holistic approach to recovery.
Gambling Addiction Treatment Options Available at a Residential Gambling Rehab
At a residential rehab centre like Smarmore Castle, treatment that addresses gambling behaviours is carefully designed around your individual needs. Your treatment plan is shaped by the severity and nature of your gambling problem, ensuring you receive the most effective support from the very beginning. Below, we outline the typical steps involved in private rehab to help you understand what the process looks like.
- Initial assessment
- Therapy and counselling
- Family therapy
- Complementary therapies – art therapy, fitness, yoga, meditation for holistic recovery
- Relapse prevention
- Ongoing support
Gambling and Mental Health
Many compulsive gamblers also struggle with co-occurring disorders such as bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or unresolved trauma. Environmental factors and repeated unsuccessful efforts to stop gambling can deepen a person’s emotional distress, sometimes contributing to depression.
Compulsive gamblers often experience co-occurring mental health issues. These may include mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, or substance misuse problems. At Smarmore Castle, we provide integrated dual diagnosis support, allowing us to treat both the addiction and underlying mental health challenges.
Find Out About Gambling Addiction Treatment
The team at Smarmore Castle work with you to create a personalised alcohol rehab treatment plan.
Support for Families Affected by a Loved One’s Gambling Addiction
Gambling affects entire families. That’s why Smarmore Castle provides:
- Family therapy sessions to keep family members updated on your treatment.
- Education on gambling addiction and communication strategies to help provide coping strategies during your recovery.
- Support for setting healthy boundaries and reducing enabling behaviours.
The team knows it is important to help family members understand they are not to blame and provide support throughout their loved one’s recovery, so you can rebuild your connection and help others understand what you and they have been going through.
What is the Cost of Gambling Rehab in Ireland?
The cost of rehab for gambling addiction treatment can vary depending on the programme length and specific care needs. You can access treatment via health insurance, HSE, or by privately funding your stay. Contact a member of our team to find out more.
Get Help Today – Contact Smarmore Castle
Taking that first step toward recovery can feel overwhelming. At Smarmore Castle, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to offer expert advice, compassionate support, and clear information about our residential treatment options.
Access your free, confidential addiction assessment as part of our admissions process, so you can explore your treatment needs in a supportive and non-judgemental space. Our dedicated team will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way, from your first phone call to inviting you back for ongoing support after you leave rehab.
If you have urgent medical concerns, please consult your GP. Otherwise, we’re ready to help you begin your journey of recovery.
Other Resources Available
If you are looking for additional local groups to offer you extra support during this time, reach out for support from your peers in groups at Gamblers Anonymous Ireland. At Gamblers Anonymous sessions, you can chat with like-minded individuals going through their journey.
You can also access group counselling for alcohol or drug addiction from organisations such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). If you feel you need to talk to someone confidentially, reach out to Samaritans Ireland.
Contact Smarmore Castle Today
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is gambling addiction a mental illness?
Yes. Gambling addiction is recognised as a behavioural addiction in both the World Health Organization’s ICD-11 and the DSM-5, which are the leading global diagnostic tools for mental health conditions. It affects the brain’s reward system in similar ways to drug or alcohol addiction, and often co-occurs with conditions like anxiety or depression. [1]
-
What is the best therapy for gambling addiction?
There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution to treating a gambling addiction. However, a therapy like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is regarded as one of the most effective therapies for gambling addiction, often used alongside dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR), and holistic approaches that provide treatment for the overall well-being of a person.
-
How will I know if I need rehab for gambling?
If gambling is causing problems in your life — financially, emotionally, or in your relationships — and you find it difficult to stop despite these consequences, rehab may be the right next step. You don’t have to hit “rock bottom” to get help. Early intervention can prevent things from getting worse.
-
What is the best therapy for gambling addiction?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is considered one of the most effective treatments for gambling addiction. It helps people identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and develop better coping strategies. At Smarmore Castle, we combine CBT with other evidence-based approaches, such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), EMDR for trauma, and holistic therapies like mindfulness and art therapy.
-
Can you fully recover from gambling addiction?
Yes, recovery is absolutely possible. While gambling addiction is a chronic condition, many people go on to lead fulfilling, stable lives without gambling. Ongoing therapy, peer support, and relapse prevention strategies can help you stay on track in the long term.
-
Can you get free rehab in Ireland?
There are free or low-cost rehab services available in Ireland, often through charities or community addiction services. These programmes may have waiting lists or specific eligibility criteria. Smarmore Castle is a private treatment centre, but we can advise on all your options and help you make an informed decision.
-
How do I help a loved one with a gambling addiction?
Start by expressing your concern in a calm, non-judgemental way. Let them know you’re there to support them, and gently encourage them to seek professional help. You can also reach out to our admissions team for advice — we support families as well as patients.
Gambling Statistics Ireland
Gambling Use Statistics: People aged under 50 have higher rates of problem gambling, with those in their 30s estimated to have the highest rate.
Daily Gambling Statistics: People with problem gambling spend, on average, more than €1,000 per month on gambling.3
Treatment for Problem Gambling: Over half (52.7%) of patients in a study conducted between 20087 and 2022 reported gambling as their sole problem, while 47.3% of cases were also associated with problem substance use. 93.8% of participants were male.5
Gambling and Mental Health: Individuals with PG tend to suffer disproportionately from other addictive and mental health issues.6
-
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). Gambling. [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].
- Health Research Board (HRB). Gambling in the Republic of Ireland. HRB publish first report on Irish gambling trends [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].
- Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). ESRI estimates 1-in-30 adults in Ireland now suffers from problem gambling. [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].
- Gov.ie. Report findings on Children and Gambling deeply troubling – Minister Browne. [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].
- Health Research Board (HRB). Gambling in Ireland: profile of treatment episodes from a national treatment reporting system. [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].
- O’Ceallaigh, D., et al. Gambling. A Narrative Review of Important Policy-Relevant Issues. [Internet]. [Accessed June 2025].