Is Gambling a Problem for Someone You Know or Love?
Many people consider gambling a harmless recreational activity. And, for many people, it is. However, for some individuals gambling is a serious problem, with social, financial and emotional costs that affect their lives and the lives of their loved ones.
If you are concerned about the impact gambling is having on the life of someone you know or love,pleasecall the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling. We understand the problem.We can help.
- The Signs of Problem Gambling questionnaire is a quick,confidential way to help you determine whether someone you know or love may have a gambling problem.
- Twelve-Step Self-Help Groups , such as Gamblers Anonymous , Bettors Anonymous , and Gam-Anon hold regular meetings for problem gamblers and their families and friends. To find out more about each organization and its meetings, click on the links.
- DPH/BSAS Outpatient Treatment Centers with trained counselors are available* for problem gamblers or their families who are seeking professional counseling. (In asurvey conducted in 2001, 11 out of 13 health insurance companies in MA covered all treatmentservices requested for clients with gambling problems. Through funding from the Department of Public Health, treatment is available for peoplewho do not have insurance coverage or finances to pay for treatment out of pocket. For more information, please call the Council's Helpline at 1-800-426-1234).
- There is often a link between Problem Gambling and Substance Abuse . This page can help people understand the differences and similarities between the conditions.
- The Council’s Helpline offers information and confidential referrals totreatment for gamblers and their families and friends.
- Are you concerned about student gambling? Download the Council's, Students: Know the Limit brochure or check out the Massachusetts Gambling Screen (MAGS) , for more information.
- The Council has recently launched a new website for parents who want to provide their young adult children with sound financial information, and by doing so, help their kids to avoid gambling problems. Please visit www.financialfirststeps.org.
- When young adults enter the workforce for the first time, they have many financial decisions to consider, including whetherand how gambling plays into their budgets. To address this need, the Council has developed a workbook entitled, Real Life 101:Financial Tips for Graduating Students.
- Each year, the Council holds several regional trainings, as well as an annual conference. For more information, please visit the calendar of events.
- Download the Council's list of private practice clinicians.
