The effects on those who gamble
Problem gambling can create adverse effects on their health, their relationships and their financial stability.
- The stress can result in anxiety, depression and stress-related problems such as poor sleep, ulcers, headaches and muscle pains.
- They can damage their reputation from lying about their gambling, not paying back loans or not upholding work or family commitments.
- They're distracted; it's all they can think about.
- You think about ending your relationship if they don't stop gambling.
- You fight about their gambling all the time.
- They seem to no longer enjoy gambling, but continue anyway.
- They owe so many people money, they just can't face them.
- Creditors are looking for payments and they might be facing bankruptcy.
- They're emotionally distant.
- They talk about feeling hopeless and consider suicide.
Effects on Family and Friends
This may be the most costly aspect of problem gambling. Money can often be replaced or re-earned, but a relationship can be forever damaged or destroyed.
- If their gambling puts you in danger of losing savings or property, you can feel scared, angry and betrayed.
- Feeling hurt, you may not want to be emotionally or physically close with them.
- You may avoid family members and friends because you feel ashamed. This makes it hard for you to receive the love and support you need.
- You can also suffer from anxiety, depression and stress-related problems.
- You may try to keep things in control by taking on too many tasks which can lead to burnout.
- When a parent has a gambling problem, children can feel forgotten, depressed and angry. They may not understand what is happening and can blame themselves.
- Children may believe they must take sides between their parents.
- Children may stop trusting a parent who makes promises and doesn't keep them.
- Stress can lead to hurtful words or physical violence towards loved ones.
Effects on their work and co-workers
Problem gambling impacts every aspect of their lives, including their working life. They may find themselves in situations where they are unable to pay back money they borrowed from co-workers or miss work due to gambling. This can lead to strained working relationships and poor performance thereby preventing promotions or even leading to dismissal.
One family's story
Listen to the impact of his father's gambling on Adam. The family handled the situation is the best way they knew how. With the help of a counselor, they have been able to move forward together.
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