Pathological Gambling
		What is the Real Cost?

The “Hidden Disorder” is the way the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration defines it.  The Family Social Services Administration (FSSA) website declares compulsive gambling is called “the hidden disorder” because there is no smell on the breath or stumbling of steps or speech.  Nonetheless, it is just as debilitating as alcohol or drug addiction.  Since gambling was legalized in Indiana nearly 20 years ago more and more people have been affected by the prospect of “easy money”.

Estimates of more than 200,000 people in Indiana and neighboring Kentucky are problem gamblers and experts say internet wagering could swell the ranks.  Many families are suffering a financial loss and breakup.  Thefts, embezzlements and bankruptcies due to gambling are on the rise.  In Indiana at least two addicted gamblers have taken their own lives.  While the state has received billions of dollars in gambling revenue that has paid for new roads and new schools since gambling became legal, Indiana has treated fewer than 1,000 compulsive gamblers.

2^nd Chance counselors are also discovering through evaluations of clients with drug and alcohol addiction that, pathological gambling has contributed to or is a major factor in the patient’s present situation.  Thirty seven persons presently being treated for substance abuse are determined to have a gambling problem, will begin a new program designed specifically to deal with gambling addition.

The program will help identify triggers like people, places and things that may cause them to enter back into the excitement of the emotional roller coaster in gambling.  Once the awareness of the triggers is realized by the problem gambler, work begins on starting new habits of thinking, and their spirituality.  Also, to learn and know the importance of what really matters in life, God, church, family and become a positive contribution to their community.  A part of the gambling program a Credit Counseling Class will be given.