The Addiction Help .com

I've come to terms with my addiction to gambling... mostly lottery tickets (scratch off, draw games). It's been months building up, and I had no idea what I was getting into. I took a good look at my finances, and I am at the point of no return! I've been searching for the right counselor, and found out thru my work we offer Employee Assistance Program (EAP). I found articles on the internet, and all of my symptoms and actions diagnosed as a mental disorder, Pathological Gambling, I can deal with the difficulty of getting better, but my major problem is how I've kept it a secret from my spouse, friends and family members. That was one of the key factors to my illness. I am taking the first step in getting help....but how do I disclose to my spouse the mountain of debt we're in? I am prepared to end our marriage if it comes to that. But honestly, I feel my spouse will be supportive in helping me recover, and we would have to start over (most likely have to file bankruptsy).

Unfortunately you've encountered an addiction that costs money, and leaves you and your family in a rough situation. If it makes you feel better, everyone has an addiction. whether it be gambling or alcohol or sex or religion, people end up with a crutch to help them get by. People even get addicted to help groups.

If you're prepared to deal with it whatever the cost, and you're in a position in which you understand your problem, you are well ahead of the greater majority. Good luck and i hope things work out for you and that the next one isn't so costly.

2006-12-06 18:27:55 by LARGE MARGE

Professor Marc Potenza, Yale University: quot;What are the boundaries of addiction - on pathological gamblingquot;. A Stockholm Psychiatry ...