
Compulsive gambling is often called the "invisible" addiction - those who suffer from it don't have liquor on their breath like some alcoholics, or needle marks on their arms like some drug addicts. But the consequences of gambling addiction can ruin lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, call Treatment Solutions Network today at 877-417-6237.
Gambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, is gambling behavior that causes disruption in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social, or career. Warning signs of gambling addiction include:
Roughly two million Americans meet the criteria for gambling addiction, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Another four to six million are problem gamblers - a serious affliction that, if left untreated, often leads to a full-blown addiction.
Gambling addiction can occur regardless of your choice of game - be it poker, slot machines or the state lottery (yes, plenty of people are addicted to lotteries). The important thing to remember is this isn't just a financial problem, it's a progressive illness. If you pay off all of a compulsive gambler's debts, that won't cure the addiction. Inevitably, the gambling addict will continue to place bets, and accrue more debts that he or she can't afford to pay.
Some people think gambling addicts are just weak-willed people, but the simple fact is compulsive gamblers are not able to quit their habit without professional help. Let Treatment Solutions Network refer you to the gambling addiction treatment that you or your loved one needs. Our referral service is free, and our only priority is finding the right gambling addiction treatment program for you. For those who also need the services of an alcohol rehab or drug rehab, there are facilities that can treat both gambling addiction and substance abuse simultaneously.
Though compulsive gambling is sometimes seen as somehow less "serious" than alcohol or drug abuse, gambling addicts commit suicide at far higher rates than those with drug or alcohol addictions.. A gambling addict who puts off treatment is playing a dangerous game - Russian roulette - with their own life. Call us today if you think you may need to find treatment for compulsive gambling 877-417-6237.
In addition to the high risk of suicide, there are other consequences to untreated gambling addiction, such as:
Bobby F., a recovering gambling addict from South Florida, is an example of the severe consequences of compulsive gambling. Bobby built successful real estate and jewelry businesses, but when the real estate market crashed, he found himself at local casinos with increasing frequency. In just two years, Bobby pegs his gambling losses at close to $2 million.
"You're looking at a guy who was living in an over-a-million-dollar house in Fort Lauderdale," Bobby told the Miami Herald. Bobby also had another house in South Florida - and a condo too.
"It's all in foreclosure," Bobby said. "The bank owns them."
Bobby reached into his wallet and flipped past a "Player's Club" customer loyalty card to pluck out the new card he uses these days: A food stamps benefits card.
If gambling has become a problem, it is essential that you or your loved one receive professional addiction treatment. But there is also an important step that the addict can take on their own: self-exclusion.
Most casinos around the country offer self-exclusion lists to patrons who have lost control over their gambling. You simply tell the casino you would like to be banned from the facility, and they take down your name.
Banned gamblers are sometimes able to sneak back in, of course, but they won't be paid if they hit a large jackpot - large pay outs require paperwork that will reveal you shouldn't have been there in the first place. Without the possibility of a big score, many compulsive gamblers find it easier to stay away from the casino.
Remember, it is best for the gambler to bring a friend or relative to the casino when attempting to self-exclude, so that they are not tempted to gamble once more. For more guidance on self-exclusion, and on conquering a gambling addiction, call Treatment Solutions Network today at 877-417-6237.
No matter your insurance, be it Cigna, Aetna, Humana, Blue Cross / Blue Shield (BCBS), Assurant, Unicare, United Health Care, Anthem, Carefirst, Asuris Northwest Health, Golden Rule, Celtic Insurance, Fortis, Health Net, Kaiser, Vista, Shelter, Wellpoint, Tri Care, Accordia or even Medicare, and state insurance - we can help you find gambling addiction treatment. We also offer many affordable self pay options as well as luxury gambling addiction treatment