Every year, six to eight million Americans struggle, often in silence, with a gambling addiction. Although for most people, gambling is a fun and non-problematic form of entertainment, for those with an addiction the results can be tragic. "People often do not recognize when their gambling has become a problem," states Nicole Drozdiel Gambling Prevention Specialist for Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems, "too often I meet people who didn't realize they were addicted until after they have lost everything including their jobs, homes, family, and even their freedom." People with gambling addictions are among the highest population to either attempt or complete suicide. According to Drozdiel, "this due to the fact that this addiction progresses going unnoticed because there are not the obvious physical symptoms like you might see in a person who struggles with other addictions like alcohol or drugs."
A presentation titled, "Gambling Addiction there is help, there is hope" will be held on Saturday beginning at 1 p.m. at the Warren Public Library. The event is free and open to the public. The purpose of this presentation is to teach attendees tips in identifying potential gambling addictions, as well provide help in finding local resources and supports for the person (and their family) who may be struggling this difficult issue.
According to Drozdiel many people are often too embarrassed to admit they have a problem with gambling, because gambling is entertainment. This leads many people to delay seeking the help that is available. For questions or more information on Saturday's presentation call Beacon Light Behavioral Health at 584-1140 x-1205.