The increase of gambling venues has addiction specialists concerned — and for good reason. Study after study has shown that as the availability of gambling opportunities rises, so too does the number of problem gamblers. And, while the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has found that 6-to-9 million Americans will have a gambling problem in any given year, only a small fraction seek out education, intervention or treatment services. With this being the case, it’s even more important that those who know someone with a gambling problem reach out for help.
Compulsive gambling is called the invisible disease because it doesn’t carry with it the same recognizable symptoms as substance addiction.
This makes it even more important to look closer for the signs of a problem. Don’t assume someone has it under control. Instead, check in, ask questions and if the story doesn’t add up, reach out for support.
As with other addictions, compulsive gambling can be stopped with appropriate treatment. Even better news is that in most cases, funding is available — and not just for the gambler, but also family members and friends of gamblers. To learn more, contact Mikaela or Jason at (215) 421-1634 or info@guidanceforgrowing.com. Your confidentiality is always our priority.
