Thankfully, compulsive gambling, APA physicians and therapists concur, is not a moral weakness but a treatable disease for which help is available.

Problem gamblers and their families can receive a referral for treatment by calling the California Problem Gambling Help Line at:

1-800-GAMBLER (800-426-2537)

Help Line counselors can help problem gamblers and their families define their confused feelings about problem gambling any time of the day or night. The counselors not only offer confidential counseling, they also have county-by-county listings of support groups and therapists throughout California. If a caller feels comfortable sharing a name and address with the Help Line counselor, the Help Line counselor will also mail explanatory pamphlets about problem gambling to the caller at no expense.

We know that picking up the phone embodies the problem gambler's first step toward recovery. Our counselors will guide the problem gambler, or his or her family, to a solution from this debilitating illness. Here is what some of the Help Line's callers have said about our counselors quality assistance:

" People with gambling problems should call the Help Line. I've been abstinent for two days and four weeks and have given my wife the checks and money. I'm going to Gamblers Anonymous too."
- Anonymous

"The Help Line was very responsive. I felt good about the call. The counselor gave me the right direction…I am planning to follow-up with the referral given to me by the Help Line."
- Anonymous

"I was really happy with the call. Things are going better now. My husband is going to a Gamblers Anonymous meeting in Ukiah. He's trying to be straightforward with me now."
- Anonymous

If you think that you or someone you care about might have a gambling problem, call the California Problem Gambling Help Line: