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Mickelson
Gambling Debt
by Jerry "Jet"
Whittaker
June 30, 2006
In 1994, the American Medical Association affirmed that
gambling has the potential to develop into compulsive
behavior. For the many families who deal with obsessive
gambling every day, the official resolution served only
to validate what they had known all along gambling is a
serious disease. The quantity of gamblers in the U.S. is
estimated at 80 percent, and for most, it is an
occasional activity that never results in serious
problems. For others, though, it becomes an irresistible
compulsion that destroys families, financially and
emotionally.
Problem gambling debt
According to the National Council of Problem Gambling,
the compulsive gambler usually follows a three-phase
progression. The first is the Winning Phase, in which
the gambler experiences a big win, which in turn further
self-esteem. The outcome is an increase in the frequency
of the gambling and the amount wagered. Unreasonable
optimism expands as the gambler fantasizes about
winning. After that is the Losing Phase. It takes place
when the luck starts to run out and the gambler begins
losing money. During this era, thoughts turn exclusively
to gambling and winning. Relationships become strained
as the gambler regularly loses control. He begins
covering up his gambling and creates borrowing money
from friends, family, and credit cards.
Conclusion
The last stage is the Desperation Phase. By this time,
the gambler can no longer pay debts and starts looking
for rapid fixes, both legal and illegal. A fascination
with making up for past losses develops. Time spent on
gambling is affecting work and family, and there are
generally feelings of remorse and hopelessness. Loss of
personal and business reputation is attended by
depression and sometimes thoughts of suicide. One of the
most severe measurable problems caused by
gambling is debt.
Of the people who contact the NCPG, roughly four out of
five report that their debts were a contributing reason
for seeking help. Another key indication is frequent
borrowing. At any point in time, most obsessive gamblers
can be found in the midst of a losing streak, so they
are in constant need of cash. He or she will frequently
pawn personal items for extra cash, and even borrow from
loan sharks. If you see these signs in yourself or a
member of your family, it is suggested contacting the
NCPG and seeking help to eliminate the gambling problem.
Then contact CCCS, and we'll provide the counseling you
need to get rid of the debts.
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