Is Gambling Negatively Affecting You or Someone You Care About?
Is gambling negatively affecting your life? Do you know someone who spends too much time or money gambling? Do they lie about how much money they have lost? Do you feel ashamed, embarrassed and afraid of being judged by others who may discover what is happening?
Problem gambling does not just affect the gambler, but also affects 8-10 others around them such as loved ones, spouses, children, parents, or even co-workers. The discovery of a gambling problem can be devastating emotionally, as well as financially. Out of control gambling activities can cause loved ones to feel confused, hurt, angry, and uncertain about their future.
The stress caused by problem gambling behaviors can also affect physical health; disrupting sleep, causing anxiety and depression which can manifest into other physical ailments. Often, those who suffer the effects of problem gambling behaviors are reluctant to reach out for help because they feel alone.
You are not alone, there is help available, FREE and confidential services are offered in California to the loved ones of problem gamblers through a program called CalGETS (California Gambling Education and Treatment Services). CalGETS offers a variety of treatment services to meet your needs and is available in many different languages (including English, Spanish and Chinese). Getting help is easy; call 1-800-GAMBLER, text “SUPPORT” to 53342, or chat at
800gambler.chat.
A life where problem gambling does not control you is possible. TREATMENT WORKS. When you are ready to take the first step, we are here. If your loved one is not yet ready to seek help, we can still help you. For more information, visit our
Loved Ones and Youth page or call (916) 327-8611.