Compulsive Gambling Help Available To Those Who Need It – Montgomery Independent

Some may be aware that Alabama has continuously struggled with the idea to allow the state to operate, and tax, gambling activities such as a lottery. Problems that can arise from such activities has well been on the radar of the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling. Since opening in 2012, this council has served as the official state affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling. While the name may bring some assumptions with it, it is important that we get a few things straight about this groups service.

This council is a non-profit organization that aims to educate the public about problems associated with gambling develop path toward identification and treatment of the identified gambling problem. The problems one faces from a gambling addiction functions similarly to those of alcohol and narcotics addictions. Symptoms are similar regarding acting on impulses toward the problem, draining of money, damage to social and family relationships, etc. A key difference would be that it can be even harder for loved ones to notice a gambling problem even exists until actual financial or legal troubles. Furthermore, a gambling addict can place a bet from the comfort of their chosen room, on any device from a computer, smartphone, or still via telephone call.

While the behavior and mode of addiction are different, the results of this addiction are the same as other addictions: incarceration, poverty, and sometimes even suicide. Addicts of any drug or behavior seem to realize they have a problem and seek help, have help from loved ones to such a realization, or hit rock bottom. This rock bottom appears when the addict runs out of money. Theyll beg borrow or steal for the funds to continue their addiction. Jack Galassini, President of the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling even pointed out that once the addict has burned through begging or stealing from family, or friends, they may even start stealing from their workplace or company.

Its a devastating problem that they continue to learn more and more about. While discussing a 2016 study, Galassini explained that approximately 5% of gamblers will experience manifestations of such addictive problems. These problems can even be present on college campus. What the Council wants, more than anything, is to make sure everyone knows they have an option for help. Furthermore, it seeks to educate, train, and provide expert councilors. Now the 211 call service includes the option for a caller to connect with a local councilor for the caller, or the callers loved one. Also, the Council has been trying to advertise their existence and services through billboards throughout the state.

While neutral on whether Alabama should, or should not, expand gambling, its mission is to make sure that any state that develops an office will have the resources needed to help anyone. Furthermore, the council is a non-profit organization that aims to educate the public about problems associated with gambling develop path toward identification and treatment of the identified gambling problem. Should you or anyone you know be struggling to stop gambling, please contact the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at 334-277-5100, visit their website at alccg.org, or contact 211.

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Compulsive Gambling Help Available To Those Who Need It - Montgomery Independent