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Legal gambling is a booming industry--from casinos to state lotteries--and most Americans occasionally play a game of chance. While a lucky few may win big, others have become problem gamblers and lost their fortunes, families, and friends. In fact, 2-5% of adults show signs of having a gambling problem. What are some of the warning signs? A person developing a gambling problem may: · give up important activities to spend time gambling · be unable to cut down or stop gambling · gamble away all his/her money · lie to hide gambling · commit crimes to get money for gambling · become restless or irritable if unable to gamble · continue to gamble despite the problems caused by gambling (e.g., debt, family conflict) · need to bet more often or larger amounts to achieve the same thrill Problem gamblers may have high hopes after a big win early on, but often become discouraged and even desperate later as the losses pile up. Gamblers are reluctant to admit that they have a problem, but this is the only way they can get help and break the cycle. If someone you know has a gambling problem, lending him or her money will only keep the problem going; encouraging someone to get help, on the other hand, might start to turn the situation around. Self-help organizations such as Gam-Anon can also give you support in coping with a problem gambler. If you think you may have a gambling problem yourself, be assured that there's help available in many forms, including self-help groups (e.g., Gamblers Anonymous) and treatment programs. |
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