Gambling Prevention and Treatment Programs

Does Gambling Hurt?

You bet it does.

Compulsive gambling has been described as one of the most deniable, most hidden addictions. You cannot smell gambling on the breath of its victim and there may be no obvious outward signs of the havoc being wreaked. Despite this cloud of secrecy, its devastation is far reaching, affecting 3-4% of Iowans and their families.

CFR understands the insidious nature of this disease and have trained people who understand the pain it causes. We know that the symptoms of this illness are financial ruin, physical problems, mental losses and emotional devastation. These problems are evidenced by the fact that compulsive gamblers have a rate of suicide attempts that are six times the national average – the highest among all those with mental illnesses.

"Compulsive gambling is just as real and just as devastating as addiction to drugs and alcohol."

The caring staff at Community and Family Resources knows that feeling helpless keeps people in the grip of this illness. Help is available in the form of intensive outpatient with room and extended outpatient treatment. Individual and group counseling, along with educational services and assistance with referrals for financial counseling, are available for compulsive gamblers and their families. If you or someone you know is suffering, let us provide that help and hope that can break the cycle of destruction.

Community and Family Resources is your resource for compassion, help, and hope.