Gambling Prevention Awareness

Who is affected by problem gambling and is there help?

Problem gambling affects the gambler, the family, the employer, and the community.

Gamblers spend less time with their family and deplete their family's finances. They may max out credit cards, bounce checks, ask their friends for money, obtain high interest loans, and steal money to gamble. Their work suffers as they misuse time and have difficulty concentrating. 

They may always be on the phone to secure the next fix of money or to check on the outcome of their bets.

Many problem gamblers do not want to tell others about their problem. 

The first step is to ask for help.

The National Council on Problem Gambling can be reached at 1-800-522-4700. This organization can help you find counselors in your area who are experienced in treating problem gamblers.

Gamblers Anonymous can be reached at 1-213-386-8789.

It is important to remember that even though the behaviors of a problem gambler are devastating, there is help available and with ongoing treatment, there is always hope for a sustained recovery. 

National Council on Problem Gambling State Resources