It means that gambling addiction is treatable and that recovery and a return to a productive life are possible. “I find myself sitting here today as a much better father, husband and son,” says Justin, a recovering gambler. Frank, another recovering gambler comments, “I am much more present and functional in my job and the results are great.”

Don Feeney, President of the National Council on Problem Gambling notes, “Problem gambling doesn’t discriminate. It can affect rich and poor, young and old, male and female. You can find it in big cities, small towns, and in places far from the nearest casino. The problem gambler can be your neighbor, your co-worker, or a member of your family. It’s a medical condition, not a moral weakness. There’s treatment. There’s hope.”

Recovery works and it also matters. When addressing one’s gambling problem, it is possible to turn one’s way of life around. March 3 -9, 2013 is National Problem Gambling Awareness Week and a great time to make a decision to address a gambling problem. Call the toll-free National Problem Gambling Helpline Network at 1-800 -522-4700 for confidential help and to begin the journey back to yourself. Pennsylvania residents can also contact the Pennsylvania Gambling Hotline at 1-877-565-2112. Other resources, including a treatment locator, can be found using the “Problem Gambling” button in the navigational menu at the top of this site.

Content for this article provided by the National Council on Problem Gambling