Self-help is considered a critical part of the recovery process for gambling disorders. Self-help groups can assist callers and provide the tools and strategies for recovery by providing support, direction, motivation, resources, and a sense that they are not dealing with the gambling problem alone. An essential aspect of many self-help programs is the utilization of a sponsor. Sponsors frequently provide additional information, encouragement, fellowship, and guidance to newcomers on a voluntary basis. They may also furnish assistance and offer suggestions to newcomers on a case-by-case basis.
The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) provides resource referrals for both in-person and virtual meetings, for a wide variety of Self-Help Support Groups.
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is an anonymous and confidential fellowship of men and women of all ages, from diverse social and economic backgrounds, races and religions, who meet for the purpose of sharing their experience, strength and hope as it relates to maintaining abstinence from gambling while living a happy and useful life. There are no dues or fees, and the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling.
Gam-Anon
Gam-Anon is for persons adversely affected by the gambler, such as family members and friends. Members are provided opportunities for learning how to cope with the gambler and accompanying difficulties. It is similar in structure and function to GA. It is not necessary for the gambler to attend Gamblers Anonymous in order for a family member, friend or other loved one to participate in the Gam-Anon program. Members are provided opportunities for learning how to cope with the gambler and accompanying difficulties. It is similar in structure and function to GA.
Gamblers in Recovery
Gamblers in Recovery is an online tool which catalogs over 400 gambling-specific weekly virtual self-help group meetings hosted around the world via ZOOM, including Gamblers Anonymous meetings, Gam-Anon meetings, and Recovery Road meetings. The Gamblers in Recovery website uses a simple interface to assist help seekers in locating meetings to join around the clock, throughout the week. The worldwide nature of the meetings list and resulting overlap of global time zones also helps bridge the gap for help seekers with scheduling conflicts that can make joining local meetings challenging. Best of all, this resource is completely free.
Recovery Road
Recovery Road is an online recovery program with no dues or fees that was founded from the growing urgency of problem gamblers wanting to quit gambling and live in recovery. Support is available for gamblers and loved ones through private Facebook Groups and daily online 12-Step meetings offered from morning to midnight and more, facilitating connection to a support network of others going through similar situations.
Celebrate Recovery
Celebrate Recovery is a faith-based support group that can help with all types of addictions and problems. This group calls them “hang-ups, habits and hurts”. They work the 12 steps and the 8 Recovery Principles of the Beatitudes to instill a feeling of hope in overcoming whatever problem the person is facing. In the meetings you will share about your situation with other group members, receive guidance from church members, and work through the program together over the course of 8-10 weeks.
Gaming Addicts Anonymous (GAA)
Gaming Addicts Anonymous (GAA) – formerly Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous (CGAA) – is a fellowship and recovery program for compulsive video gamers. The only requirement for GAA membership is a desire to stop computer/video gaming.
Online Gamers Anonymous (OLGA & OLGA-Anon)
On-Line Gamers Anonymous®, founded in 2002, is a 12-step self-help group. Members share experience, strengths and hope to help and support each other recover and heal from problems resulting from excessive video game playing (gaming disorder). Anyone affected by excessive gaming is welcome here. The OLGA/OLG-Anon fellowship offers a spiritual solution for recovery. The 12-steps are offered as one of the tools for recovery from gaming addiction, and are highly recommended, for a successful recovery.
Internet & Technology Addicts Anonymous (ITAA & IT-Anon)
ITAA is a 12-step fellowship of individuals who support each other in recovering from compulsive internet and technology use. The single purpose is to abstain from compulsive internet and technology use and to help others find freedom from this addiction. Meetings are free to attend, and there are no membership requirements beyond the desire to stop compulsive internet/technology use.
Collectors MD
Collectors MD operates the first recovery focused peer support community designed specifically for collectors navigating compulsive spending, gambling adjacent behaviors, and the emotional fallout of modern hobby culture (sports cards, TCG, memorabilia, sneakers, watches, NFTs, or any other collectibles). Their weekly virtual meetings provide a safe, judgment free environment where collectors can slow down, reflect, and regain control.
Other Alternative Support Groups
These groups are for gamblers or loved ones that are afflicted with other issues in addition to the gambling addiction, such as substance abuse, Parkinson’s disease, Depression, Bi-Polar Disorder, compulsive shopping/spending, overeating, or are stricken with grief. Although they are not a traditional 12-step programs, they offer comfort, support, and a chance to share with others who are also affected by the same or similar serious mental/physical health issues.
Most people are surprised to learn how many resources are available. You can download a wide range of free, Florida‑focused problem gambling resources designed to inform, support, and empower anyone affected by gambling problems. Visit the full collection of Problem Gambling Resource Packs to discover additional topics, tools, and materials!
