The Effects on Families Are Not Fun
The gambling addict is not the only one to suffer from this addiction. The effects of gambling addiction can quickly throw a family into crisis. One immediately thinks of the financial impact on families such as debt repayment, bankruptcy, bad credit ratings, and so forth.
Related to this, the gambling addict may have lost his job or may be arrested for embezzlement, fraud, or check forgery. Even one's home may be lost and go into foreclosure when the mortgage payments can't be made. Family members may feel they need a second job to save the family financially.
Who are “casino kids?”
“Casino kids” are the children of gambling addicts who may be left in cars or on sidewalk curbs while their parents are gambling. Children of gambling addicts are frequently neglected or abandoned physically and emotionally by a parent who is caught up in his or her addiction. Abuse is common, and these children are more likely to develop a gambling addiction themselves.
The emotional trauma a family may experience can also be devastating. A family member other than the addict may be the one confronted and harassed by debt collectors and creditors. Dealing with divorce, separation, or being the only parent trying to manage the home front while the gambling addict is gone can feel overwhelming.
Families may experience shame, guilt, and embarrassment over their financial circumstances or having their loved one in prison facing serious legal consequences. It will be essential for family members to develop support systems and get professional help to see them through this difficult situation. Only families who are emotionally and mentally healthy will be able to support their loved one trying to recover from gambling addiction.
