Taking a holistic approach and actively listening to patients is crucial in all patient encounters. It can allow you to understand patients’ concerns, values and the impact that certain behaviours or conditions might be having on their lives. Gambling disorder, often referred to as a ‘hidden addiction’ is, as Charles and Liz Ritchie point out (pp. 8–10), an extremely serious issue which can have devastating consequences for indiviuals and their families. As community nurses visiting patients in their own homes, we have a unique opportunity to identify signs of gambling harm and offer support. Clearly, it’s a topic that needs to be approached sensitively and without judgement, but recognising gambling disorder as a public health concern and addressing it within the context of a patient’s overall wellbeing can make a significant difference to their lives and the lives of those
around them.