Pathologic Gambling

• Remember that gambling is an illness, do not judge them.
• Confront them with the issue.
• Be honest about how the gambler's behavior makes you feel.
• Discuss treatment options.
• Hold problem gamblers responsible for their actions including the consequences. Do not bail them out financially, emotionally, or legally.
• Protect yourself emotionally, get counseling or join a support group such as Gam-Anon
• Do not blame yourself for the gambler's problems.
• Stop enabling, cut off the gambler's money supply.
• Protect yourself financially; take over the family finances, review bank and credit card statements, request credit reports from the three main credit bureaus, monitor Internet use to see if the person is gambling online.
• Assess for suicidal thoughts, if you believe the individual is suicidal call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.

Betting on a NFL game or on the ponies does not constitute pathologic or problematic gambling. Nor does a trip to Las Vegas or Atlantic City with family, buddies, or peers for general debauchery and a chance to win back your airfare indicate you may have any mental health disorder, including compulsive gambling. However, if you think that you or someone you know may have, or at risk for, a compulsive gambling problem you may want to take (or offer) a self test. If you believe you are at risk, the simplest solution is to avoid places, people and things that will trigger a compulsion to gamble. Always gamble with others, never alone. Set limits on how much time and money you spend on gambling. Utilize self-control methods, links are provided below. Remember that virtually everyone who gambles loses money in the long run. If you bet more than you can afford to lose, you may have a problem. The good news is there are solutions, treatment and hope.