Domestic Violence: A Scary Factor in Disordered Gambling

Abuse refers to any action intended to control or harm another person. It is frequently driven by a desire to assert power and dominance over someone else. Abuse can take many forms, including physical (domestic violence), sexual, verbal, financial, or psychological mistreatment.

All forms of abuse can range from subtle to severe in their effects. Anyone, regardless of gender, can perpetrate abuse against another person. Disordered gambling often leads to a sense of lost control, which may cause the individual struggling with addiction to lash out at others for various reasons. Feelings of depression and anxiety can also trigger anger, which is sometimes directed at those closest to the individual. Conflicts may arise due to financial losses or the urgent need for money to support a gambling habit. In many cases, when a confrontation begins, the other person may choose to back down simply to avoid escalating the situation.

The cycle of abuse can be broken down into four main steps:

1. Tension building
2. Abuse
3. Reconciliation
4. Calm

Abusive behaviors may escalate from cycle to cycle, although this isn’t always the case which can make them additionally painful and confusing. Abuse doesn’t look the same for everyone or in every situation. Even in the same relationship, abusive behaviors can change from time to time and, in some cases, they may appear to cease before they show up again. This is often referred to as the cycle of abuse.

It is possible to end this cycle of abuse. You’re not alone, and support is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233 [1], the Florida Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-500-1119 [2], and the Florida Abuse Hotline is 1-800-962-2873 [3] – all are available 24/7. If you are in a situation where you fear for your safety, call 911.

Relationship problems have been one of the most frequently cited reason for contacting the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine for decades. Problem gambling has been extensively reported to negatively impact family relationships. To learn more about the impacts of problem gambling, including relationship problems, domestic violence, impacts on children, and more, watch this video on our most recent HelpLine data findings:

Don’t Suffer in Silence: 888-ADMIT-IT

If you or someone you care about is experiencing domestic abuse as a result of a gambling problem, you are not alone. The 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is available 24/7 for anyone in Florida seeking free, confidential help and resources for problem gambling. Whether you’re struggling yourself or concerned about a loved one, calling or texting 888-ADMIT-IT connects you to counseling, peer support, self-help support groups, and more – all at no cost.

1. “National Domestic Violence Hotline.” The Hotline, National Domestic Violence Hotline, 23 May 2025, www.thehotline.org/.
2. “Domestic Violence.” Florida Department of Children and Families, https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence, Accessed 23 May 2025.
3. “Safety and Protection.” Florida Department of Children and Families, https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse, Accessed 23 May 2025.