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 prevent betting routines becoming unhealthy dependencies.
Former Celtic and Wales striker Hartson has previously discussed his betting addiction and is supporting a brand-new project by Scottish Professional Football League sponsors Ladbrokes that motivates responsible .
"I'm abstinent for 7 years," stated the 43-year-old. "I plan to stay clear of betting. That is my choice. It's all about a personal choice. Life is all about choices.
"There is help there. It became a serious issue for me. The message is and the targets for me are to stop people getting to where I was due to the fact that we're providing them tools and we're providing a chance if the gaming does get out of control, there is aid, there's gain access to - you can prohibit yourself from your regional bookie, you can take yourself off the web if you gamble online.
"There are individuals out there, issue gamblers, and we put the check in place that if the wagering is impacting your home life, your individual life, your health then there are places, there are indications and there is great deals of suggestions.
"There are situations now and places where individuals can resolve that and become accountable gamblers."
Several players in Scotland have actually served bans for breaking betting guidelines and club officials are also prohibited from putting bets on football matches.
"I'm not here as a previous addict telling individuals to stop gambling," added Hartson. "I am here to help people not to get to where I was.
"It's not for me to inform people to stop betting. People will not listen to me. If people desire to gamble, they'll gamble.
"We're not magicians. It's not a magic wand. If individuals wish to stop, they will look for assistance. If individuals do not desire to stop, then they just simply will not."
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