Problem Gambing Help

Gambling is a fun pastime but everyone must be responsible. If you have a gambling addiction problem, we encourage you to seek help.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling. There are no dues or fees for Gamblers Anonymous membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. Gamblers Anonymous is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy; neither endorses nor opposes any cause. Our primary purpose is to stop gambling and to help other compulsive gamblers do the same.

Most of us have been unwilling to admit we were real problem gamblers. No one likes to think they are different from their fellows. Therefore, it is not surprising that our gambling careers have been characterized by countless vain attempts to prove we could gamble like other people. The idea that somehow, some day, we will control our gambling is the great obsession of every compulsive gambler. The persistence of this illusion is astonishing. Many pursue it into the gates of prison, insanity or death.

We learned we had to concede fully to our innermost selves that we are compulsive gamblers. This is the first step in our recovery. With reference to gambling, the delusion that we are like other people, or presently may be, has to be smashed. We have lost the ability to control our gambling. We know that no real compulsive gambler ever regains control. All of us felt at times we were regaining control, but such intervals - usually brief -were inevitably followed by still less control,which led in time to pitiful and incomprehensible demoralization. We are convinced that gamblers of our type are in the grip of a progressive illness. Over any considerable period of time we get worse, never better. Therefore, in order to lead normal happy lives, we try to practice to the best of our ability, certain principles in our daily affairs.

GamCare takes a non-judgemental approach to gambling. We do not wish to restrict the choices or opportunities for anyone to operate or engage in gambling opportunities that are available legally and operated responsibly.

We strive to develop strategies that will:

• Improve the understanding of the social impact of gambling
• Promote a responsible approach to gambling
• Address the needs of those adversely affected by a gambling dependency 

GamCare operates the national telephone helpline for anyone affected by a gambling problem and operates a network of both face-to-face and online counselling and support services. 

The National Council administers several nationwide programs, including a 24-hour confidential helpline, a gambling-specific certification program for treatment professionals, and sponsors the Journal of Gambling Studies, the only academic journal in the world devoted to problem gambling research. In addition, the NCPG sponsors regional, national and international conferences, supports research, distributes literature and works with other organizations involved in problem gambling issues. The National Council on Problem Gambling is a tax-exempt, non-profit organization that maintains a neutral stance on gambling.

The NCPG currently has 34 state affiliate chapters, and numerous corporate and individual members. They encompass the leading United States and international experts in problem gambling policy, research, prevention, education and treatment.