Help Available To Prevent Gambling Problems, Says John Hartson
5 November 2018
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John Hartson believes the "tools" remain in location to avoid betting practices becoming unhealthy addictions.
Former Celtic and Wales striker Hartson has actually formerly discussed his gambling dependency and is supporting a brand-new campaign by Scottish Professional Football League sponsors Ladbrokes that motivates responsible wagering.
"I'm abstinent for 7 years," stated the 43-year-old. "I prepare to remain clear of gaming. That is my choice. It's everything about a personal option. Life is all about choices.
"There is assistance there. It ended up being a major problem for me. The message is and the targets for me are to stop individuals getting to where I was due to the fact that we're providing them tools and we're providing an opportunity if the gambling does get out of control, there is aid, there's access - you can ban yourself from your local bookmaker, you can take yourself off the internet if you gamble online.
"There are individuals out there, issue gamblers, and we put the indications in location that if the wagering is affecting your home life, your personal life, your health then there are places, there are indications and there is lots of recommendations.
"There are scenarios now and puts where people can fix that and become responsible bettors."
Several players in Scotland have served restrictions for breaking gaming rules and club authorities are also restricted from putting bets on football matches.
"I'm not here as a previous addict informing individuals to stop gambling," included Hartson. "I am here to help individuals not to get to where I was.
"It's not for me to inform people to stop gambling. People will not listen to me. If individuals desire to gamble, they'll bet.
"We're not magicians. It's not a magic wand. If individuals want to stop, they will . If individuals don't desire to stop, then they just merely will not."
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