Gambling Addiction: An Interview with Dr. Gary Lange

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/3009058/gambling_addiction_an_interview_with.html?cat=41

Published May 23, 2010 in Associated Content, by: Jaleh Weber

For some people gambling is an occasional fun game. For others gambling is an addiction that has a negative impact on their life. I have interviewed Dr. Gary Lange to help understand gambling addiction.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

"I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Rancho Mirage, CA who specializes in the treatment of problem gamblers, addicts and their families. I also help certify other therapists who want to help pathological gamblers."

What are the signs of someone who has a gambling addiction problem?

"One of the most telling signs is "chasing one's losses". This person looses money gambling and goes back later to recoup their losses. Sometimes people will also chase the "high" of a big win. Loss of control, financial and relational problems, preoccupation, needing to gamble greater amounts and wanting to escape from emotions or pressures are other symptoms."

Are there certain people who are more susceptible to being addicted to gambling?

"People who have addictions in their family, like living on the edge or have little regard for money are at greater risk of developing gambling problems. Anxious, depressed and isolated people are even more susceptible. People who are impulsive and don't have a good support system are also more venerable."

What type of impact does gambling addiction have on a person's life?

"Depending on how severe the gambling is, it can have totally devastating consequences. For example, imagine if you woke up one morning and wanted, felt like you NEEDED to do something very important to you and didn't have ANY money. Your savings and all available money were depleted. Your credit cards are maxed out and none of your family or friends wanted to talk to you or extend you any credit. Your family and job were in jeopardy or gone. Again, you felt like you NEEDED to play right now to relieve these intense feelings. You might even feel that the only way out was suicide. That is an extreme example of gambling addiction and fortunately most problem gamblers still have some resources and some ability to stop at times."

What type of help is available for someone who has gambling addiction?

"Fortunately, many psychotherapists know about treating addictions and are learning more about helping gamblers. Talking to anyone about your pain and problems at a 12-step program like Gamblers Anonymous or a support group or faith-based group can help. Others find help on-line, as long as it does not involve gambling on-line. This problem is progressive, so the sooner someone seeks help, the better."

What last advice would you like to leave for someone who is addicted to gambling?

"There is always hope and help. Reach out and honestly let others know how bad it is. A multitude of individuals have successfully dealt with this and similar problems and are stronger today because of it. Make a commitment to take one positive step in the right direction today."

Thank you Dr. Gary Lange for the interview.  If you would like more information on Gary Lange check out his website at http://garylangephd.com/.