If you’re reading this, you’re probably in the thick of it – trying to figure out how to help your child while feeling like you have no idea what you’re doing. We get it. We’ve been there.
One thing we’ve learned from watching our own kids’ journeys? Support group meetings can make a real difference. Not for every kid, and not right away for some – but for many young people in recovery, connecting with others who truly get it has been a turning point.
Why Meetings Matter (Even When Your Kid Says They Don’t)
Here’s the thing about gambling addiction – it’s isolating. Your child probably feels like no one understands what they’re going through. And honestly? Most people in their lives don’t. But in a room full of other gamblers? They’re not alone. They’re not the only person who’s ever bet their rent money or lied to the people they love.
That matters more than you’d think.
Most of the young adults we know who are now in recovery got there, at least partly, through meetings. Not always because the first meeting was magical – sometimes it takes trying a few different groups before something clicks. But because eventually, they found their people.
What You Might Hear (And What It Really Means)
Fair warning: your child might resist. Hard.
“This isn’t for me.” “Those people are way older.” “No one there will understand my situation.”
Sound familiar? Here’s what we’ve learned – that’s often the addiction talking, not your kid. The addiction wants to stay hidden. It wants your child to believe they’re different, that their situation is unique, that these meetings are for “other people.”
They’re not.
Encourage them to look for similarities rather than differences. Yes, the guy who lost his house to slot machines might seem like he has nothing in common with your 22-year-old who’s betting on sports. But underneath? The feelings, the lies, the shame, the cycle – it’s remarkably similar.
So, Where Do You Actually Find These Meetings?
We’ve put together information on the different options out there. There’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s actually good news – your child can try different approaches until they find what resonates.
One helpful starting point: gamblersinrecovery.com pulls together meetings from many different organizations in one place. It’s a good way to see what’s available.
12-Step Programs
These follow the same basic framework as Alcoholics Anonymous – working through steps, finding a sponsor, and being part of a fellowship. Some kids connect with this structure right away; others need time to warm up to it.
Gamblers Anonymous (GA) This is the big one – GA has been around for over 65 years, so they know what they’re doing. There are meetings everywhere, both in person and online, so your child can find something that fits their schedule and their vibe.
One thing that’s worked for some families: calling the hotline yourself, together, or encouraging your child to call on their own. Sometimes just talking to one person who’s been through it can open a door. Gamblers in recovery are wonderful people who are looking to help.
🔗 gamblersanonymous.org 📞 Find your state’s hotline
Young Adults Gamblers Anonymous If your child is between 18 and 35 and feels uncomfortable being in meetings with older folks, this might be worth trying. There are virtual GA meetings specifically for younger gamblers. We have compiled a list of some good meetings that have a younger crowd. Please email us at hello@parentsstandingtogether.org and ask for the list!
Celebrate Recovery For families with a faith background, this might feel like a natural fit. It’s Christ-centered and uses biblical principles alongside the 12-step framework. Some kids find that the spiritual component gives them something to hold onto.
Recovery Road Online This one’s great for kids who need flexibility – they have Zoom meetings available around the clock. Literally any time of day or night, there’s a meeting happening somewhere. For a young person who’s struggling at 2 am, that can be a real lifeline.
Not Into 12-Step? There Are Other Options
The 12-step approach works for many people, but it’s not the only path. Some kids respond better to something different – and that’s okay. Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. They can use all approaches that work for them.
SMART Recovery This is science-based and focuses on building practical skills – managing urges, handling difficult emotions, and creating a balanced life. There’s no higher power component, which appeals to some young people. It’s very much about learning tools you can use.
Recovery Dharma If your child is drawn to mindfulness or meditation, this might resonate. It uses Buddhist principles (but you don’t have to be Buddhist) and emphasizes self-compassion alongside recovery. For kids who are really beating themselves up over their gambling, that self-compassion piece can be really helpful.
Communities That Might Feel Like Home
Sometimes what a young person needs isn’t a formal program – it’s just finding other people who get it. These communities offer that connection.
Problem Gambling Support Group (PGSG) This one’s run by someone with lived experience, and it tends to have a younger crowd. Daily Zoom meetings and a What’s App Chat mean lots of options for connecting.
📧 Email joinus@dcgp.org for meeting info
The Modern Meeting This is a more casual, open format – anyone affected by addiction can join, whether they’re in recovery, still struggling, or supporting someone else. No pressure, no judgment, just real talk and camaraderie.
📧 Email modernmeetingpod@gmail.com for the meeting link
Evive App A great option for young people who aren’t ready to walk into a meeting room yet. It’s a free app that’s private and anonymous – which matters to kids still feeling shame about their gambling. They can do daily check-ins, track urges, and connect with an online community of others going through the same thing. It meets them where they are, whether they want to stop completely or just cut back.
🔗 getevive.com 📱 Available on App Store and Google Play
Stop Betting Sports A nonprofit focused on helping gamblers and their families understand this addiction and connect with resources and support. Their “Sunday Project” is a webinar format that features panelists such as clinicians and gamblers in recovery. Along with being an easy entry point to support for your child, this can be a helpful way for a parent to understand what is happening through their child’s eyes. You can sign up on their website for the zoom link.
The Broke Girl Society For daughters struggling with gambling, this community was created by and for women in recovery. Sometimes it helps to be in a space designed specifically for women’s experiences.
Collectors MD This one’s specific but important – if your child’s gambling is tied to collectibles and shopping (Pokémon cards, sports cards, break culture, whatnot), this group understands that particular world. They get how a “hobby” can spiral.
Reddit: r/problemgambling Some kids feel more comfortable with the anonymity of online forums, at least at first. The problem gambling subreddit is active and can be a low-pressure way to start connecting with others.
🔗 reddit.com/r/problemgambling
A Note From Parents Who’ve Been There
We know how hard this is. We know you want to fix it, and you can’t. What you can do is keep showing up, keep providing resources, and keep believing recovery is possible – even on the days when your child doesn’t believe it themselves.
Meetings aren’t a magic solution. But they can be piece of the puzzle. And sometimes, the right meeting at the right time with the right people is exactly what helps something finally click.
Keep encouraging them to try. And take care of yourself, too.
Looking for support group meetings for yourself? Check out our recommendations here.
Next up: Support Groups for Parents➤
Parents Standing Together provides peer support only – not therapy, medical care, counseling, or legal advice. No professional services or treatment are offered. For any medical, legal, financial, or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified professional. If you or your child is in crisis, call 988 and seek professional help immediately.