Why do women become gamblers?

A woman problem gambler may be attempting to:

• Minimize feelings of loneliness.

• Escape mentally and emotionally from past or current traumas and unresolved grief.

• Escape physically from chronic pain or other health conditions.

• Win money.

• Avoid conflict or abuse at home.

• Relieve stress or tension in other areas of her life.

• Like alcohol and other drugs, problem gambling can provide temporary escape from unpleasant emotions or thoughts.

• Women often believe they are in control of their situation. A woman using cocaine may believe she thinks more clearly or is more productive at home and work. A gambling woman may believe she has "a system" for picking winning lotto numbers or creating good luck.

• There are usually no physical signs to indicate that a woman has been gambling such as slurred speech or difficulty walking, however gambling does cause an altered state, even though no substance is being ingested. Family and friends are often unaware of the problem for some time.

• A woman can rationalize gambling as a positive activity because charities benefit from the proceeds.

• A win can be a welcome event for the woman and her family and friends. There may suddenly be money for household expenses, outstanding debts and gifts.

- Source: The Women's Addiction Foundation

Problem

gambling

Problem Gambling is a progressive, medically recognized disease characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, the need to make bigger bets and to bet more often, restlessness and irritability when trying to stop gambling, "chasing" losses, and loss of control of one's life. The problem gambler will continue to gamble in spite of increasing financial, psychological, vocational and social problems, eventually "hitting bottom" if they do not receive help. They often develop symptoms of major depression and can be at risk for suicide.

- Source: The Problem Gambling Center

Where to go

for help

The Problem Gambling Center

527 Humboldt St. Reno

284-5335

Counselors: 363-6174

e-mail: info@gambling problems.com

Funded: By private donors and the state of Nevada.

On the Net

www.gamblingproblems.com

gamblingproblems.org

www.bristleconereno.com

www.gamblersanynomous.org

On the phone

Local Gambler's Anonymous: 356-8070

Bristlecone out-patient in Reno: 954-1400

Toll-free 24-hour help: 1-800-GAMBLER

Problem Gamblers HelpLine: 1-800-522-4700

On the Net

State Department: http://www.state.gov/

g/oes/climate/

United Nations: http://unfccc.int/2860.php