Brother's Gambling Addiction Nearly Ended in Tragedy

Arvid Bergman’s brother was deep in the grip of gambling addiction, a struggle shared by hundreds of thousands of Swedes. By September 2021, his brother had hit rock bottom, lying, betraying trust, and attempting suicide. Arvid, who describes himself as co-dependent, tried for years to help but found support systems lacking. Their local municipality offered about ten psychology sessions, but it wasn’t enough for a condition Arvid calls a lifelong illness. Arvid says he never received any support as a family member, even though help for loved ones is crucial. A recent review by Sweden’s National Audit Office criticizes the government’s efforts against problem gambling. Meanwhile, the Public Health Agency estimates gambling addiction costs the state 11.5 billion kronor annually. Responsibility falls on municipalities and healthcare, with national agencies like the Public Health Agency and the National Board of Health and Welfare tasked with providing guidance, but the audit says that’s where things fall short. Hope came through Spelfriheten, a nonprofit offering free peer-led meetings for both gamblers and relatives. Both brothers began attending meetings. Arvid says it changed his life and ended his isolation. Today, his brother is gambling-free and active in a twelve-step community. Arvid feels better than ever and urges others not to suffer alone. Support lines, online tools like Spelpaus.se, and groups like Gamblers Anonymous remain available nationwide.