Many gamblers can stop or moderate their gambling without help. However, true problem gamblers always find themselves back in action. Older people gamble to escape grief, loneliness and boredom – what starts out to be a social event, such as a bus trip to a casino or a weekly bingo game may start to deplete needed survival funds.
In increasing numbers, young gamblers have discovered internet gambling, those who develop problems have been known to max out credit cards and spend tuition money. Problem gambling is not a selective illness. Anyone, no matter how innocent the circumstances, can get caught up in compulsive gambling. And yes, pathological gambling can lead to domestic abuse, divorce, poverty. homelessness, prison, and suicide.