Compulsive
gambling is an illness, progressive in its nature, which can
never be cured, but can be arrested. The most serious form
of problem gambling, compulsive gambling, can result not only
in financial devastation, but also in loss of relationships,
residence, emotional or physical health, and career or educational
opportunities. Some compulsive gamblers commit illegal acts
to support their gambling or to pay off gambling-related debts.
Some go to prison or are admitted to psychiatric institutions.
It is not uncommon to hear about compulsive gamblers who,
unable to cope with dire circumstances caused by gambling,
attempt or commit suicide.
Symptoms of Compulsive Gambling:
- Is preoccupied with gambling (e.g., preoccupied with
reliving past gambling experiences, handicapping or planning
the next venture, or thinking of ways to get money with
which to gamble).
Gambles with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve
the desired excitement or escape.
- Gambles longer than planned. Has repeated unsuccessful
efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling.
- Gambles as a way of escaping from problems or of relieving
feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety or depression
or to escape physical pain.
- Lies to family members, therapist, or others to conceal
the extent of involvement with gambling- may include lying
by omission.
- Relies on others to provide money to relieve a desperate
financial situation caused by gambling.
- Commits illegal acts such as forgery, fraud, theft,
or embezzlement to finance gambling.
- Has jeopardized or lost a significant relationship,
job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling.
- Has considered or attempted suicide as a result of gambling.
- Loses interest in regular activities, hobbies.
- Changes in personality: Angry; Irritable; Critical;
Sarcastic; Depressed; Argumentative
There are number of Organizations and Institutes which
provide treatment, education, training, research, and expert
witness testimony on compulsive gambling.
You can approach these Organizations and Institutes to
help compulsive gamblers and their families.
- National Council on Problem Gambling
- Gamblers Anonymous
- The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc.
- Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
- The Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling.
- The Compulsive Gambling Center, Inc.
|
|
|
