Gambling addiction doesn’t benefit from the volume of resources that substance abuse disorders do. An online search will yield handfuls of rehab advertisements and some of these have insightful articles and blogs that detail not just the neurobiology of addiction, but also ways that family and friends can support compulsive gamblers in their life and, sometimes, themselves. There are a host of research articles well above many non-specialists’ comprehension and, if you’re anything like us, it’s far easier to get confused and frustrated than it is to find the answers we so desperately need. We hope that this section gives you a clear path to gaining a strong understanding of gambling addiction and, especially, how to protect and care for yourself whether you choose to stay and support the gambler in your life, or leave them.
Resources to Understand Gambling Addiction
Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling (HelpGuide.org): Are you or a loved one dealing with a gambling problem? Explore the warning signs and symptoms and learn how to stop.
Freedom From Problem Gambling Self-Help Workbook (UCLA): This self-help workbook will help problem gamblers understand their gambling behavior, why they gamble, how it may have become a problem, and will teach them ways to help stop or reduce their gambling.
How gambling affects the brain and who is most vulnerable to addiction (American Psychological Association): Understanding what makes certain people vulnerable to developing problems could ultimately lead to better strategies for prevention and treatment, and also elucidate the evolving health impacts of gambling, the consequences of starting young, and even the role that the government should play in addressing those issues.
Resources to Support Family & Friends of Compulsive Gamblers
Fold ‘Em: Gambling Problem Help (Resources and Podcast, Canada): Find information about gambling problems and where to get help. Our podcast episodes offer inspiration from people who have been through it as well as guidance from professionals.
Gam-Anon (International): Gam-Anon is a separate 12-step support group for family members, friends, and anyone who is affected by someone’s gambling problem. In Gam-Anon, members experience relief from anxiety by accepting the fact that they are not responsible for someone else’s gambling problem
Supporting Families and Friends of a Loved One with Gambling Problems (Cambridge Health Association and Harvard Medical School): Gambling-related problems can lead to financial, social, emotional, occupational, and physical harms. These harms can impact more than just the gambler, causing a ripple effect throughout their social network. In particular, the consequences of problem gambling can impact the gambler’s family, intimate partners, and close friends. Although this is a provider guide, it is use-friendly for the lay reader.