By Rick Benson
If you or someone you love has been struggling with compulsive gambling, you probably want to know what to do to get things under control quickly. When the desire to gamble starts taking priority over other things it can start to damage relationships with your family and colleagues and it can cause havoc to your finances. If you know that it’s time to quit gambling and you’re ready to make the commitment, Gamblers Anonymous is an option.
What is it?
Gamblers Anonymous is a program run in the community that brings together compulsive gamblers who help to support each other to solve their common problem of gambling. There are no fees or duties and the program is not affiliated with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution.
Much like Alcoholics Anonymous where people come together to share their stories and admit their helplessness over the progressive illness of addiction, Gamblers Anonymous reaffirms that no real compulsive gambler ever really regains control of their gambling. Even when you feel like you are regaining control and want to prove it to those around you, you are in fact falling deeper into the illusion that this is even possible.
Who is it good for?
Gamblers Anonymous is good for compulsive gamblers who know they have a problem, who admit that they cannot assert control over gambling, and who have a desire to quit and regain control of their lives.
If you have lofty goals and all you need is one big win to get there, you should consider getting gambling addiction treatment. It is a very common characteristic of compulsive gamblers to have dream worlds in which they can achieve and acquire many things but in reality, the failure to realize these dreams turns regular life into one of misery.
How does it work?
By meeting regularly with your peers and holding each other accountable, people have been found less likely to return to gambling.
Is there a Gamblers Anonymous Hotline?
Yes. You can find one for your area here.
What if it’s not enough?
Often, someone struggling with compulsive gambling needs more than just a weekly meeting to really work through the behavioral process addiction of gambling. For those who are on the edge of losing everything, or who want an immersive gambling rehabilitation program, there ARE gambling specific rehabilitation programs available. Entering rehab for gambling is for some the most effective way to really quit gambling for good.
If you’re not sure if you should attend Gamblers Anonymous or enter a gambling addiction treatment center, call us today. A free, no obligations phone call can get you started on the right path to gambling recovery.
