What is compulsive gambling?

Compulsive gambling is an emotional illness, not a moral issue or lack of willpower. It is recognized as an impulse disorder and has many of the same characteristics of other addictions. Pathological gambling is a progressive, potentially chronic disorder that creates an overwhelming, uncontrollable impulse to gamble. It is a diagnosable and treatable condition.

Why do gamblers have to destroy everything they ever worked for and continue to get money for gambling when they know that the bills are not getting paid?

In the case of gambling, money is the vehicle used to achieve the "high" so it can cause great financial hardship to the gambler and their families. In other words, money is the "drug" of the gambler. Financial counseling is a component of treatment, but the emotional issues must be addressed as well to effectively change behavior patterns.

Is there a pill that will make me stop gambling?

Compulsive gambling is a complex disorder. Effectively treating this disorder requires a variety of therapies. Biological factors as well as social, psychological, and spiritual factors all play a part. There are medications today that can be effective in conjunction with a treatment remimen.

My spouse has a problem with gambling. How can I make her stop?

Families are often frustrated and distraught because nothing they do seems to reach the compulsive gambler. Unfortunately, no one can make another person stop gambling. But there is hope! Family members often play roles and follow destructive patterns within the family. When one family member changes, it affects the entire family system and change is possible. Families need to focus on themselves and how they can stop reacting to the gambler and his or her activities. Family members can take steps to improve the areas of their lives that they can control.

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