National Council on Problem Gambling Provides Valuable Service
The National Council on Problem Gambling does not take a position on whether it is right or wrong to gamble as they see problem gambling more as an individual affliction than that as an evil.
While most people gamble with no problems, there are many that abuse this activity due to emotional or other mitigating factors. They define problem gambling as a behavior of patterns that compromise, disrupt, or damage personal, family, or vocational pursuits.
Some signs of problem gambling include a preoccupation with gambling, chasing losses, and the need to bet more money, more frequently, and loss of control in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.
Those with a gambling problem are not unlike those with other addictions. Extreme cases can result in financial ruin, legal problems, loss of career and family, and in very extreme cases, possibly suicide.
Problem gambling can be triggered by a host of events in one's life. Changes in lifestyle, such as retirement, loss of a loved one, divorce, low self-esteem all can bring on this addiction. In some instances, genetic tendencies can lead to addiction.
Casinos, lotteries, Internet games of chance in themselves do not create addiction any more than a liquor store makes an alcoholic.
The National Council on Problem Gambling provides a valuable service to the nation, there are member groups that provide counseling, they promote the involvement of casinos and states to provide not only information, but treatment for problem and underage gamblers.
If you or someone you love have signs of problem gambling, you should contact the NCPG at 202-547-9204 or at ncpg@ncpgambling.org to get information and assistance to combat this problem.
