Gamblers Anonymous for Families
Compulsive gambling can affect family members as well as the gamblers. Compulsive gambling is a symptom of an underlying emotional disorder, according to Gamblers Anonymous. Although the Gamblers Anonymous meetings are usually designed for addicts to share stories and recovery methods, family member sometimes need help as well. There are a few things you can do to alleviate the stress of living with a gambling addict.
Other People Are Reading
-
Identifying the Problem
-
The first step in treating any addiction is usually for the addict to admit a problem. Families might have trouble expressing their feelings to a relative because of denial. Pointing out suspicious behaviors with money, or irresponsible spending records can sometimes present the addict with irrefutable evidence of addiction. Gamblers Anonymous meetings can help the addict further if he is not in denial and if he's not attending just because of social pressure.
Helping a Compulsive Gambler Seek Treatment
-
Families can help relatives go to Gamblers Anonymous meetings by finding the meeting location and details for them. Meetings can be found in any state by calling the national Gamblers Anonymous hotline, 888-424-3577. Sometimes family members take the initiative get the addict to a meeting, because addicts are often reluctant to begin treatment.
-
Familial Support During Treatment
-
Emotionally supporting a gambling-addicted family member during recovery can be difficult. Recovering from addiction is stressful and can cause an addict to be irritable. Be patient with recovering those recovering from compulsive gambling, and compliment their progress. Some Gamblers Anonymous meetings allow family members to join in; this might create a more comfortable environment. Meetings that are marked "open" allow family members, while closed meetings are strictly for compulsive gamblers.
Things to Avoid
-
Avoiding some situations when living with a compulsive gambler can help their treatment. If a compulsive gambler in your family has a tendency to bet on sports games, for example, try to avoid watching sports on television at home. Try to plan family activities where there is little or no competition--definitely not casinos or other gambling venues. Try to occupy a compulsive-gambling family member with games that do not have a winner or looser, or with family activities with no competitive objective, such as jogging or walking.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit gambling image by marta from Fotolia.com
