What Do I Do If I Have a Gambling Problem?
Washington, D.C. (PRWEB) March 20, 2014 -- Recovery is the focus of week four of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Anyone, anywhere, at any time, can call the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network at (800-522-4700) to speak with a live, knowledgeable Helpline specialist. The Helpline specialist is often the first person a concerned individual speaks with and can provide problem gambling information and referrals for services in the caller’s area. This is a free, confidential, 24/7 service.
The Helpline connects the caller with resources in the caller’s area such as counseling services, treatment programs, and support groups. The call itself often provides a measure of relief. By connecting with long-term support, the problem gambler can sustain that relief and establish a satisfying and productive life.
Jeffrey Beck, Assistant Director for Clinical Services, Treatment & Research for the New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling comments, “Many states, such as New Jersey, operate a Problem Gamblers Helpline. But anyone can call the National Problem Gambling Helpline number and be directed to the state call center with referral information for the caller’s area. ”
“The good news is that many states have resources in place to address problem gambling. However, many people with gambling problems are unaware that help is available. Through the NPGAM campaign we hope to raise public awareness and facilitate treatment and recovery,” notes Robyn Filler, a Helpline Coordinator who has talked with thousands of callers from around the nation.
Additional resources to assist the problem gambler, or the family of a gambler, may include:
• National Council on Problem Gambling
• State Affiliate Council
• Outpatient or residential treatment programs (sometimes at little or no cost)
• Gamblers Anonymous and other support groups
• GamAnon (for family members)
• Faith-based community groups
• Websites and other information resources for problem gambling
• Self-Exclusion (legally ban self from gaming establishments)
“We encourage all those who are suffering from the devastating disorder of gambling addiction to take the first step towards recovery by calling the Helpline” says NCPG executive director Keith Whyte. “No matter how bad the problem may seem, there is hope and help available.”
National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (NPGAM) is a grassroots public awareness and outreach campaign to educate the general public and health care professionals about the warning signs of problem gambling and raise awareness about the help that is available both locally and nationally. For more information, please visit http://www.npgam.org.
NCPG is the national advocate for programs and services to assist problem gamblers and their families. NCPG was found in 1972 and is neutral on legalized gambling. For more information, please visit http://www.ncpgambling.org.
Contact:
Keith Whyte
keithw(at)ncpgambling(dot)org
202-547-9204
Keith Whyte, National Council on Problem Gambling, http://www.ncpgambling.org, +1 202-547-9204 Ext: 23, [email protected]
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