Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers

Gambling can cause disruptions in every area of life, and the devastating effects don't stop with the gambler. Like any addiction, gambling takes its toll on the entire family, causing loss of trust, financial hardship, and difficult dynamics. Based on the authors' extensive research and filled with hands-on questionnaires, exercises, and charts, this book provides relatives of problem gamblers with a comprehensive program of cognitive-behavioral strategies to help them overcome the negative hold the habit has on their lives. It helps readers identify the problem, understand its origins, and assess its impact on the gambler and his or her family. Then it lays out easy-to-follow "action steps" to manage the problem, repair relations, recover financially, and get professional help if necessary.