The Steps to Recovery from Gambling Addiction
Remorse: the gambler must demonstrate genuine evidence of regret and remorse for past misdeeds and misconduct. Acknowledgement is paramount to remorse.
Repentance: the addicted person must demonstrate what changes for the better are being made as a result of the misconduct.
Restitution: the gambler must make a detailed and structured plan for repayment of debts. (Gamblers Anonymous has a format for this process.)
Rehabilitation: there must be a commitment to actively participate in rehabilitation including professional counselling and self-help groups.
Recovery: the person must be willing to document and demonstrate the type of lifestyle changes that are to be implemented to prevent relapse and return to gambling.
What to do
Problem gambling is very difficult to detect because of the level of denial. It is referred to as the silent addiction because there is no visible evidence (no smell of alcohol, no physical deterioration) of the problem.
There are many resources to help treat this disease. Professional help and self help groups are very important parts of the process. Family members, business associates, partners and professional colleagues may also need assistance. Please call LAP for assistance and advice about the next steps to take.