Gambling Support Groups

About 3 million American adults are considered pathological or compulsive gamblers, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Another 6 to 9 million have suffered negative effects, including debt, depression and family struggles due to gambling. With such vast numbers addicted to gambling, support groups have become a gateway to freeing individuals of this debilitating disease. Support groups provide anonymous, peer-moderated venues to address problems and assist in treatment for compulsive gamblers.

Gamblers Anonymous

• Gamblers Anonymous, a peer group with a worldwide reach is the largest organization for addicted gamblers. There are no fees for participation in the program, and the organization is not affiliated with any church, political group or other organization. Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12-step program to overcoming the need to compulsively gamble. The program is designed to allow individuals to progress at their own pace, with positive reinforcement in a group setting. Gamblers Anonymous also provides a unity program that outlines the basic core philosophy of the organization and what is expected of each individual. The Gamblers Anonymous website provides questions for potential compulsive gamblers, a meeting directory, a family and friends section and contact information.

  Gamblers Anonymous
  International Service Office
  P.O. Box 17173
  Los Angeles, CA 90017
  213-386-8789
  gamblersanonymous.org

Gambling Therapy

• Started by the Gordon House Association in 2004, Gambling Therapy is a worldwide online resource to assist compulsive gamblers. It is an anonymous program operated by charitable donation. The first step is the Helpline - an online contact with a Gambling Therapy adviser who will assist in providing information on the support groups, forums and the wealth of information provided through the site. Gambling Therapy has seven types of groups: community, compulsive gamblers, family and friends, women, men, ex-Gordon House members and an open chat group. In addition to group therapy, one-on-one help, email advice, text messaging and counseling services are provided.

  Gambling Therapy
  Gordon Moody Association
  114 Wellington Road
  Dudley
  West Midlands
  DY1 1UB
  UK
  gamblingtherapy.org

Daily Strength

• A social networking site for compulsive gamblers, as well as other diseases and social issues, Daily Strength provides online support groups, treatment assistance and expert advice. The site allows users to remain anonymous and gives them the opportunity to post on any topic. The site has an instant answer section, for those beginning research on compulsive gambling, a chat area to keep in contact with other members, and a goals and progress section to track one's treatment progress. Daily Strength also provides a valuable resource for family and friends seeking help.

  Daily Strength
  dailystrength.org