If you or your child is suffering from a gambling addiction, there are several places to turn for help. One of the oldest organisations that can help with a gambling addiction is called Gamblers Anonymous. Gamblers Anonymous is a 12-step program that has meetings and clubs all over the globe that are free to attend. In the 12-step process, problem gamblers admit their gambling problems and come to grips with how gambling has destroyed their lives. In addition, members of the organisation make themselves available to offer support to other members who are having problems with gambling and that are facing a relapse. Studies have shown that 12-step programs do not benefit all problem gamblers equally, however. These programs are most successful for gamblers that have had more sever gambling problems that have resulted in more severe consequences like losing homes, failed marriages, lost children, and financial ruin. Those who have not had such bad consequences from their gambling may not benefit as much from the help that 12-step programs can offer.
Gamblers can also get help for their addictions at drug treatment and psychological treatment facilities. These facilities treat gambling addiction like a drug addiction, isolating the compulsive gambler from any kinds of temptations that may fuel his need to gamble. In addition, these treatment centers also provide regular counseling sessions that may be one on one or in a group setting. Similar to Gambler’s Anonymous, the goal of these sessions are to make the gambler recognize his problem and how it has affected his life to the point where an intervention was necessary.
Not only can compulsive gambling affect the person with the addiction, but it can also take its toll on family members. Gambling addictions can destroy marriages and families, creating emotional and relationship problems that can last for a lifetime. Some treatment programs fail to take into account any counseling that family members of the addict may need, which can cause lingering problems and feelings of resentment even after treatment has concluded. Gam-Anon is an organization that is similar to Gambler’s Anonymous, except that it is designed to help the family members that have been affected by a problem gambler. Family members of gamblers meet to discuss the problems that their loved ones have caused and can get help and support from other members of the group who are dealing with the same issues.