Gambling Addiction

Gambling Problem? You Can’t Fix It by Yourself…

…YOU NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP

Unlike recreational gambling, problem gambling is an addiction — the same as alcoholism or drug addiction. Fortunately, like alcohol or drug addiction, problem gambling is treatable. Problem gamblers don't have to let gambling ruin their lives.

Recovery by Meridian offers specialized counseling and recovery programs for gamblers — and for concerned others — to help turn their lives around and to change the downward spiral of problem gambling.

Problem Gambling Awareness Week

Read more about Problem Gambling Awareness Week, March 3–9, 2013, by reading this informational PDF. Click here for more information.

Help Is Available for Your Gambling Problem

Recovery by Meridian offers screening and assessment services that can determine the nature of your gambling problem and the best course of action for treatment. Since problem gambling affects your loved ones as well as yourself, family consultations are also available.

Based on your individual needs, free or low-cost treatment for your gambling problem is available. Treatment may take the form of individual and/or group counseling, as well as family counseling. As problem gambling often creates financial difficulties for individuals and families, financial planning and budgeting services are also available.

To get the help you need, contact:
Lynn Burkey
National Certified Gambling Counselor
Recovery By Meridian
330-259-8607
lburkey@meridiancommunitycare.org


Larry Moliterno talks about National Gambling Awareness Week with Lynn Burkey of Meridian Community Care. Included are warning signs for problem gambling and the help that is available for problem gamblers and their families through Meridian Community Care.

 

How do you know if you have a gambling problem?

ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS HONESTLY…

Have you ever lied to family and friends about how much you gamble?

Have you become restless and irritable when you tried to cut down or stop gambling?

Have you had such financial troubles because of gambling that you had to get help with living expenses from family and friends?

If you answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, you may have a gambling problem.

Rules of Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be an enjoyable activity — if you keep it in the proper perspective.

If you have control of your gambling, everything will be fine. When gambling controls you, then you have a problem.

The first thing to understand is two basic realities about gambling. These realities apply to everyone — you are not somehow an exception to these realities.

  • Reality #1: Over time, the house will always win. (This goes for the state, and your bookie, too.)
  • Reality #2: If you gamble, you should expect to lose. The odds are you WILL lose most of the time. There is nothing you can do to change those odds.

So in the face of these realities, how can you gamble responsibly? By following these rules:

  • Set a dollar limit and stick to it.
  • Set a time limit and stick to it.
  • Never gamble on credit.
  • When gambling stops being fun, it’s time to stop gambling.
  • Keep a balance in your life. Gambling should never interfere with family, friends or your job.

The Ohio Casino Control Commission's Voluntary Exclusion Program

The Ohio Casino Control Commission's Voluntary Exclusion Program allows problem gamblers to voluntarily bar themselves from admission to Ohio's casinos. For more information, click here