Gambling abuse is a progressive disease of the mind where individuals feel a “high” that can be related to the high achieved with drugs and alcohol and can be just as deadly. This disease affects a certain percentage of the people that may also suffer from other compulsive behaviors or mood disorders.

Individuals who compulsively gamble often believe they can control themselves even though they find themselves in situations beyond their control. Gambling addicts are always seeking the high of the first big win- chasing that next winning streak and most often losing even more. The increasing shame, guilt, anxiety and hopelessness of the emotional highs and lows and the realizations that the situation continues to get worse rather than better can lead the gambler to thoughts of suicide.

If a friend or loved one such as your spouse, child or parent is struggling with a gambling addiction and it seems to be getting worse despite attempts to regain control…….

If a friend or loved one has lost the ability to control his or her gambling despite increasingly desperate financial and emotional debt

If a friend or loved one has borrowed money from everyone and still the rent or mortgage isn't paid……

If a friend or loved one has lost their job or is in danger of losing their job due to missed time at work and irregular behaviors….

If a friend or loved one is struggling with dramatic mood swings and goes missing without explanation…

If a friend or loved on is at Risk of professional impairment or loss of family income and jobs, possible professional license suspension.

It is time to call a professional and intervene.

An intervention raises the client’s “bottom” and establishes healthy boundaries for families and loved ones to live by. You no longer have to live by the rules of active gambling addiction.  As the disease progresses’ waiting is destructive not only to the individual, but to be the loved ones and community around them. Addiction is a life threatening disease.

Everyday of active addiction is a risk, for further damage or loss of Relationships with loved ones, family and friends. Please call 800-910-9299 to speak with a recovery professional.