Confronting the Game
Empathy for the gambling addict will be necessary in order to help. Family members and loved ones affected by the spillover consequences of the gambling addict may justifiably feel hurt and angry.
Nevertheless, remember that gathering accurate information about one's circumstances, being truthful, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan for the family and the gambling addict will be necessary for recovery. Lying and deception are common behaviors of someone in the grip of gambling addiction.
The gambling addict needs to be confronted firmly but with compassion. Someone with professional intervention skills may be called on to help if necessary. While making it clear to the gambling addict that you want to support her and help in her recovery, it is also important that she be respectfully told how her addiction has affected those around her. Taking responsibility for one's actions is an important step in recovery and rebuilding one's self-esteem.
Essential
Friends and family members who may have been drawn into the financial problems of the gambling addict need to learn their legal rights and responsibilities. Although one can empathize with the gambling addict, those around him need to protect themselves legally and financially. Hiring a knowledgeable attorney or a financial/debt counselor may be helpful. Don't avoid getting help because of fear or embarrassment.
