Overcoming Problem Gambling: A Guide for Problem and Compulsive Gamblers

Problem gambling is a significant issue in the UK where the number of gambling addicts is estimated to be around 250,000, according to the Gambling Commission's British Gambling Prevalence Survey 2007. It affects a wide range of people from teenagers and students to housewives and retired people, with increasing numbers of people gambling online. Numbers can easily be doubled considering that for each compulsive gambler there is at least one concerned "significant other". Numbers are rising annually, particularly in the UK, due to the softening of gambling advertising laws, an increase in casinos, and the popularity of internet gambling. In the USA, many industry insiders predict a return to internet gambling (stopped in 06 by banning deposits to internet casinos). The recession may also make some people more willing to take risks with their finances. This book analyses how and why people - from those with high incomes to the ordinary housewife or struggling student - gamble compulsively, and looks at how to stop. Topics include: effects of gambling; is it an illness? deciding to stop; how to support the gambler; understanding the gambling industry; changing behaviour patterns and routines; creating a support team; a lifestyle to help you stay stopped