1. Gambling Problem Family Member Dies
2. Definition Of Family Member
3. Gambling Problem Family Member Names
4. Gambling Problem Family Member Login

Are you concerned that someone you love might be gambling too much?

The first thing you might be wondering is if your family member really does have gambling disorder. Remember, gambling disorder can affect anyone, and though certain things might make someone more likely to experience gambling disorder, gambling disorder does not discriminate. Educate yourself by learning to recognize the signs, and from there we can help you move forward. Gam-Anon also offers support groups for those whose loved ones are struggling with gambling disorder.

If you've heard of Gamblers Anonymous (GA), you might know that as a 12-step recovery program for people struggling with a gambling addiction. Well, Gam-Anon is its counterpart for spouses, family, and close friends of compulsive gamblers. Mar 15, 2019 When a family member sees someone they love struggling with a gambling problem, they may find themselves feeling ashamed, hurt, angry, confused, and betrayed. While everyone processes their emotions differently, some emotional responses can hinder the recovery process and lead to family members choosing to isolate themselves from the person.

For some people gambling can be a serious problem. There are social, financial and emotional costs that affect their lives and the lives of their loved ones. If you are concerned about the impact gambling is having on the life of someone you know, please call us. We understand the problem. We can help.

To receive information about having a family member with gambling disorder and next steps towards recovery via mail, contact Recovery and Outreach Coordinator, Jodie Nealley –jodie@maccg.org. Please note that we can only send information to someone who has requested it themselves. We cannot mail information to another individual on your behalf. If you would prefer the mailing be confidential, please let us know. You can also request to receive information via email as well.

You are not alone

If your loved one is struggling with a gambling disorder, you are not alone. Council staff can provide support via phone at 617-426-4554. We can also help you to connect with others who have suffered the effects of a loved one’s gambling disorder and have valuable understanding and insight to share.

Dos and don’ts for partners of problem gamblers

Gambling Problem Family Member Dies

*Tips from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services

Definition Of Family Member

Do

• Seek the support of others with similar problems; attend a self-help group for families such as Gam-Anon.
• Explain problem gambling to the children.
• Recognize your partner’s good qualities.
• Remain calm when speaking to your partner about his or her gambling and its consequences.
• Let your partner know that you are seeking help for your own sake because of the way gambling affects you and the children.
• Understand the need for treatment of problem gambling despite the time it may involve.
• Take control of family finances; review bank and credit card statements.

Don’t

Gambling Problem Family Member Names

• Preach, lecture, or allow yourself to lose control of your anger.
• Make threats or issue ultimatums unless you intend to carry them out.
• Exclude the gambler from family life and activities.
• Expect immediate recovery, or that all problems will be resolved when the gambling stops.
• Bail out the gambler.
• Cover-up or deny the existence of the problem to yourself, the family, or others.

Find more tips including what to say if someone’s gambling concerns you, here.

Additional Resources for Families

Gambling Problem Family Member Login

Remember, you can always contact the Council for additional resources, and to find a compassionate listener who understands. We would also encourage you to visit our useful links page for additional resources.

If you are a parent concerned about your child’s gambling, “Problem Gambling: A Guide for Parents” is a great resource from the Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario. Project Turnabout also offers a wonderful guide for family members, “Hope and Help for Families”.

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