The best way to handle a gambling problem or addiction is to handle it in the same manner you would handle any other addiction, particularly narcotic addiction.  It sounds harsh to compare a gambling problem to a drug problem, but the fact is that the two correlate in more ways than most people are willing to consider.  For instance both addictions carry.

·         A “high” that takes increased use or betting to attain each time with progressive participation in the habit.

·         The use of lies to hide the actions that are being taken.

·         Use as an escape from pain and or stress of daily life or traumatic event.

·         Separation from family, friends, work, and other relationships without remorse at the time of severed ties.

 Problem gambling is a compulsive disorder that the affected person cannot control in spite of the fact that it is causing problems to themselves and the people around them, and in spite that they are aware of the harm and danger it is creating.  It can be a problem whether it is done in casinos or not, and regardless of how often it is done.

 
To treat this gambling problem, you have options, though the person you are trying to treat may not like them.  You can:

 ·         Seek therapy or psychiatric help.  Recognizing the problem and talking through it with an unbiased third party, either alone with the affected individual, or with the individual and his or her loved ones around them, will help the person learn how to cope with the problem, and eliminate it.

·         Attend Gamblers Anonymous meetings.  Gamblers Anonymous is a program that is modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and is a twelve-step program to help affected individuals learn how to cope and eliminate the problems, working with other gambling addicts through the process.

·         Try medication.  No medication will cure the gambling problem itself, though it may help to treat the root cause of the sadness, depression, pain, or trauma that led to the original addiction in the first place.