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I'm sorry to hear about your problem, Donato, but it's good that you're seeking help. As mentioned in the article, the Problem Gambling Helpline Network's toll-free number is available 24 hours a day and promises confidentiality - 800.522.4700. Gamblers Anonymous is another option for combating your addiction. The site offers a directory of local meetings where you can get involved in a 12-step program. If you have a trusted counselor or clergy member, he or she may also be able to help you start the conversation about your problem. Hope this helps you get started on the road to recovery!

-- Contributed by: Lorie

I have a gambling addiction, please help me.

-- Contributed by: Donato

You raise a good point, Audri. Unfortunately, the ads on this site can't be turned off for a single article. Because they pick up on words and phrases in the text, it's impossible to control whether they choose to highlight "gambling sites" or "fighting gambling addiction."

-- Contributed by: Lorie Witkop

I think there is very good information about addiction here. But I am a bit curious as to why there are a lot of links to places to gamble on the net on this very same page. What a double message. I would feel the same if I walked into an AA meeting and saw beer ads on the walls or neon liquor signs.

-- Contributed by: Audri

Jennifer, one thing I would suggest is having someone to talk to about the issues you're facing. A professional counselor or religious advisor would be most beneficial, but even having a sympathetic friend could be helpful. Gam-Anon (http://www.gam-anon.org) is a support group for those affected by a loved one's gambling. The organization's site includes a list of local meetings, organized by state (http://www.gam-anon.org/meeting.asp), along with hotlines when available. The group also has literature available (http://www.gam-anon.org/lit_summary.htm) with advice, personal stories, and spiritual guidance.

If you're uncomfortable talking about your significant other's problems face-to-face, you can also find online support groups. Of the online forums and chat rooms I mentioned in a previous comment, Gambling Problem (http://www.gamblingproblem.co.nz/cgi-bin/talkingpoint/discus.cgi) is open to both compulsive gamblers and the family and friends of compulsive gamblers.

A few other online resources to help you deal with online gambling addiction are:

From perusing these sites, a few common words of advice I've found include:

  • Learn more about gambling addiction – This will help you make informed decisions and open a dialogue with the gambler.
  • Urge the problem gambler to seek help – Be supportive and offer potential resources. However, recognize that you can't force someone to seek help. He must go on his own timetable.
  • Don't loan the gambler money – Providing money will only enable the gambler and keep him from facing up to his problem.
  • Protect your own money - Make sure you have separate bank accounts and credit cards whenever possible, and on a smaller scale, don't leave cash around the house.

I hope this information is helpful to you in dealing with the gambler in your life.

-- Contributed by: Lorie Witkop

I am currently in a relationship with someone who I suspect has a gambling problem. After losing a large sum of money in attempt to pay off debt, I saw that he (6 months later) was back to his old gambling site. Recently, I found that he had played at odd times and when he told me he was doing other work-related activities. I'm lost as to what do to, I feel he is starting to lie to me. Any advice?

-- Contributed by: Jennifer

The Safe Harbor Compulsive Gambling Hub (www.sfcghub.com/cgsf1.html) hosts a chat room. The site calls chat times "online meetings" but they're open to anyone – there isn't a membership list or requirements beyond respecting other chatters. There are chats available on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

GamCare (www.gamcare.org.uk) is a UK-based site, but it's open to users around the world. The site's forums are available at any time, and the chat room is open for an hour or two each day. Unfortunately, these times might not be convenient for you if you live in the U.S.

Another international site is Gambling Problem (www.gamblingproblem.co.nz/cgi-bin/talkingpoint/discus.cgi). The Talking Point section of the site is a forum for gamblers and those affected by gambling. A forum won't give you the immediate feedback a chat room will, but it can be another good way to find anonymous support from others who have been in your position.

Istoppedgambling.com (www.istoppedgambling.com) offers a chat room. However, the site requires a membership fee, and I don't know if it is worth the cost, especially when there are free resources available.

I hope these sites can help you find the support you seek.

-- Contributed by: Lorie Witkop

I am looking for a chat room to help me with my online gambling problem...I can not go to GA I am very upset with myself, and embarassed about this gambling I am doing...is there any such room...???

-- Contributed by: mary
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