Questions and Answers about Compulsive Gambling the G.A. Recovery Programme

What is Compulsive Gambling?

The explanation that seems most acceptable to our members is that compulsive gambling is an illness, progressive in nature, which can never be cured, but can be arrested. Before coming to Gamblers Anonymous, many compulsive gamblers thought of themselves as morally weak or plain ‘no good’. The G.A. concept is that compulsive gamblers can recover if they follow a simple programme that has proved successful for thousands of people with a gambling problem. Our experience has shown that the programme will always work for a person with a desire to stop gambling, but it will never work for someone who can’t face the facts about their illness.

How can you tell whether you are a compulsive gambler?

Only you can make that decision. Most people turn to G.A. when they become willing to admit that gambling has defeated them. Also in our fellowship, a compulsive gambler is described as a person whose gambling has caused growing and continuing problems in life. Many members went through terrifying experiences before they were ready to accept help. Others were faced with a slow, subtle deterioration which finally brought them to the point of admitting defeat.

Can a compulsive gambler ever gamble normally again?

No. The first bet to a compulsive gambler is like the first drink to an alcoholic. Sooner or later they fall back into the same old destructive pattern. Our experience points to two options: to gamble, risking progressive deterioration, or not to gamble and develop a better way of life.

Who can join Gamblers Anonymous?

Anyone who has a desire to stop gambling. There are no other rules or regulations concerning Gamblers Anonymous membership.

Come along to a G.A. meeting to learn more.