Your award-winning community newspaper, 722-2614

Welcome to The Clark Fork Chronicle
Thursday, September 02 2010 @ 04:36 PM MDT

Free group counseling for Montanans with gambling problem

by Robbie Carpenter

If you think you or someone you know might have a gambling problem, the Montana Council on Problem Gambling may be able to help. As part of their mission as a non-profit agency they offer free group therapy counseling to address gambling addiction and its associated social and personal problems. They also offer, referral services, and education to compulsive gamblers, their families, and other concerned Montanans.

It’s estimated that 2 to 3 percent of the U.S. population has a gambling problem and Montana is no exception. It can affect men or women of any age, race or religion, regardless of social status.

Learn to recognize the signs of problem gambling. They include:

* Spending more time and/or more money than intended.
* Gambling more to try to win back what you’ve lost.
* Lying to loved ones about the amount of time or money spent gambling.

Gambling can be considered problematic, and no longer recreational, when it causes a disruption in any major area of a person’s life.

During the week of March 7 - 13 communities nationwide are working to raise awareness of the consequences of problem gambling and the resources available for individuals whose gambling is causing disruption in their lives. Treatment for problem gambling is not only available, but is also effective in improving the lives of problem gamblers and their families. This initiative is also a celebration of the men and women who are overcoming problems associated with their gambling behavior.

A primary focus of this effort is to promote the fact that treatment works and is available in most areas of Montana. “We need to make sure that services are available to the individuals and families that need the services,” said Donna Johnson, LCPC, LAC, NCGC, Montana Council on Problem Gambling Director.

To learn more or to find a free group therapy counselor, call toll free 1-888-900-9979 or visit http://www.mtcpgambling.com .
###

Story Options

Trackback

Trackback URL for this entry: http://www.clarkforkchronicle.com/trackback.php/2010030811354649

No trackback comments for this entry.
Free group counseling for Montanans with gambling problem | 0 comments | Create New Account
The following comments are owned by whomever posted them. This site is not responsible for what they say.