I'm worried about my brother who frequents the riverboat casinos. He doesn't appear to have gotten into any sort of financial trouble. What questions could I ask of him to help me, possibly both of us, recognize whether or not his recreational activity is turning into something more problematic?

There are two questions you can ask to find out if he has a gambling problem:  Has he ever lied about his gambling? Has he found himself gambling more and more? If your brother answers yes to both, then he probably has a gambling problem. What is difficult about asking your brother these questions is that denial is a big part of having any problem, including a gambling problem. He will most likely not want to tell you the truth. If he does have a gambling problem, gambling is a solution to him, and not a problem. Whether or not he is honest with you about his gambling, it’s important to know some facts about gambling. There are a number of factors that will make things worse:

• A big win
• Chasing Losses
• A Bail Out
• Going On A Tilt, or a binge

Of these four factors, his request for a bail out, will usually seem very sincere and honest. If you are unable to say "No", talk with a mental health professional who specializes in gambling addiction; he/she can help you learn skills to deal appropriately with your brother’s behavior. If you are able to say "No," your brother will probably not like your answer, and will probably come at you with an even stronger attack of words. In addition to counseling, there is a support group for those affected by gamblers:  GAM-ANON at 314-383-3900.

Stephen H. Reimann, MA, CASAC, CCGC, LPC
9717 Landmark Parkway Drive
St. Louis, MO  63127
314-962-6708

The Psychiatric Dictionary describes addiction as "a strong dependence, both physiologic and emotional." However, gambling was not viewed in this category until the late 1980’s. But even as we see a rise in suicides, property seizures, bankruptcy and home foreclosures, sections of society continue to view this phenomenon as a "social pastime." Believe it or not, every addiction has its consequences. Step 1 of Alcoholics and Cocaine Anonymous states: "We admitted that we were powerless over alcohol and other drugs and that our lives had become unmanageable." This step also relates to gambling. Rationally speaking, the only winner is the gambling establishment.

The phases of gambling addiction are:

1. Pre-Gambling Phase: Spending $10 to $20 in scratch-offs; chances are 50 to 1 to win even $2.00
2. The Onset Phase: Visiting gambling establishments 1 to 3 times weekly
3. Crucial Phase: Preoccupied with gambling more than 4 days per week; cashing checks, borrowing, payday loans, pawning jewelry
4. Chronic Phase: Spending more time than intended on gambling establishments, racetracks, etc.; loss of control, loss of employment, bill left unpaid, family problems

In summary: There is hope for recovery from this form of addiction by first recognizing that one has a problem and is powerless, finding positive alternatives and seeking counseling before it is "too late."

Edward McFarlane, Ph.D., C.C.D.C.
District Director, Catholic Family Counseling
North St. Louis City

(Editor's note: Life Crisis Center of St. Louis staffs the problem gambling hotline, 1-800-BETSOFF.  Gamblers and others may call for help at any time.)

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