Published on 12, July, 2020
My 24 year old son has Aspergers, although not diagnosed as there is no funding in Ayrshire for adults to be diagnosed, we have done all the online tests and he scores high on them all.
We have now found out he has a gambling addiction and is thousands of pounds in debt. I am worried sick and don't know how to deal with it. We have made him go to gamblers annonymous and also took bank cards off him, informed gambling sites/payday loans of his addiction. What else can we do?
You might also find it helpful to check out the GambleAware website for resources and information on their recent [edited by moderator].
Edited by Liz Mod
Its common, people like us, with mental disabilities, often get addicted to gambling and other things. It gives us a rush of dopamine, and also provides us an escape, from the pain of life. There is help, local gambling addiction hotlines, etc
I'm really sorry to hear about your son's gambling addiction and the challenges you're facing. It's great that you've taken steps like involving Gamblers Anonymous and restricting his access to cards and gambling sites. Also, seeking professional help from therapists or counselors who specialize in addiction can provide valuable support.
I'm really sorry to hear about the challenges you and your son are facing.
Thank you Heather, I will call them.
Hi Mum 71,
I'm really sorry to hear of the difficult time you and your son are having with gambling. You may like to contact our Autism Helpline team who can provide you with information and advice . You can contact the team via telephone on 0808 800 4104 (Monday to Thursday 10am to 4pm, Friday 9am to 3pm). Please note that the Helpline is experiencing a high volume of calls and it may take a couple of attempts before you get through to speak to an advisor. Alternatively, should you prefer to send a message, you can do so via their webform:
https://www.autism.org.uk/services/helplines/main/questions.aspx
I hope you find something that helps.
Kind regards,
Heather - Mod
Thank you @Creek . We have been in touch with a few charities and he attended Gamblers Anonymous for the first time last week. I am going to push the GP again.
Moderator what do you think?
I don’t know if it applies. But if he agrees, apply for power of attorney over his financial matters.
Seek help from Gamblers Anonymous and other charities.
Also I thought the Autism Act made it a legal requirement for all the UK, that, if you are thought to be Autistic you have to be referred?