While the vast majority of people who chose to gamble--85 percent have tried it at least once--occasionally, there's a small percentage of wagers who carry things too far. The National Council on Problem Gambling says in a typical year, an estimated 2 million adults in the U.S. meet the criteria for pathological (compulsive) gambling. A gambling addict will continually make bets regardless of the odds and whether or not he can afford to. There are resources available for a problem gambler who decides to seek help.
Considerations
The negative consequences associated with problem gambling can go beyond the draining of your pocketbook. HelpGuide.org, says an addiction to gambling can also place a heavy burden on your relationships and get in the way of fulfilling your responsibilities at home and work. Excessive gambling can sometimes lead to stealing in order to acquire funds to maintain your gambling habit.
Hidden Illness
A gambling addiction can be equally destructive, both emotionally and mentally, as chemical abuse. A person who is addicted to gambling may be able to more easily conceal his problem than someone who abuses alcohol or drug abuse. This is because gambling doesn't have any glaring physical symptoms. However, the potential for financial turmoil can more than make up for the lack of physical signs.
Desire to Quit
A compulsive gambler who wants to quit his habit must acknowledge there is a problem and express a desire to stop wagering. This can be a major feat since a problem gambler typically denies or minimize the issue. She more than likely has taken great measures to conceal her addiction and may have grown accustomed to sneaking around and lying about where she has been spending her time.
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous (G.A.) is a 12-step recovery program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Members are urged to accept the fact they have a progressive illness which can be managed but never cured. Regular attendance at G.A. meetings is a viable self-help option for a problem gambler who wants to turn his life around. G.A. offers a supportive environment where you can safely talk about your gambling-related troubles and hear other problem gamblers share their stories.
Behavioral Therapy
A problem gambler who has a desire to change may also choose to seek out cognitive behavior therapy. A qualified mental health professional can help teach you how to resist temptations and work through your emotions instead of using gambling as an escape. Cognitive therapy may provide guidance that leads you on the road to a renewed life without wagering.
Precautions
Anyone who gambles has the potential to develop wagering problems if he is not in tune with the risks. The National Council on Problem Gambling says while many chronic gamblers have a family history of dependency issues with drugs or alcohol, many others come from strong and emotionally healthy families.
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