The Syndrome
There is specific behavior patterns associated with compulsive gambling. Gamblers who recognize these patterns can cope
with their addiction and recover a life free of gambling. Recovery program providing help, guidance and healing are available.
The Addiction
Compulsive gambling is an addictive disorder. Experts speak of it as a “disorder of impulse-control.” Compulsive gamblers are
unable to control their chronic gambling. An emotional dependency exists. Such gamblers are impulsive, obsessive and
irrational. They will gamble against all odds. For a compulsive gambler, to roll the dice, pick a number or play a hand becomes
more important than family, home or work. Not all people who gamble are addicted. There are some characteristic behaviors that
may help you recognize when gambling has become compulsive. Do you:
*spend a lot of time gambling or thinking about it?
*increase your bets to “catch up” ?
*boast about your winnings?
*gamble to feel good?
*have frequent or unexplained absences?
*experience mood swings- high when winning, low when losing?
*keep hidden funds or take out secret “loans” from family bank accounts?
The Addiction Process
People who are becoming compulsive gamblers go through three phases of addiction: winning, losing and, desperation.
The Winning Phase- Gamblers win, lose, and break even – often. In this phase, the winning and losing seems an adventure.
Gamblers get their “thrills.” Excitement predominates. Worries disappear.
The Losing Phase - Gamblers begin losing more than they win. Self esteem ebbs. The gambler may borrow money to “get
even.” More time is spent gambling to recover losses and repay loans. A roller coaster ride begins: The stakes and the takes
increase; but the losses come faster, and the ride down is a fearsome thing.
The Desperation Phase - Gambling becomes a full-time obsession. Life centers on “getting even” and paying off debts, often with
borrowed or stolen money. Lies and secret loans abound. Still greater risks are taken. Depression becomes chronic.
There is Help
If you think your gambling has gotten out of control, you’ve already taken the first step toward recovery—you’ve recognized the
problem. Your company’s employee assistance program may refer you to a professional counselor.
Or you may choose, as many have, to find help through Gamblers Anonymous. Gamblers Anonymous is a self-help organization
offering a 12-step recovery program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. Check the white pages for a chapter near you.
For further information:
Family Service, Inc.
(605) 336-1974/(800)-589-1974
fsisd.org
EAP Hotline 2010
COMPULSIVE
GAMBLING