GAMBLING
Gambling , as viewed by some psychologists, is "the addiction of the 90’s," and teenage gambling deserves to be viewed with the same alarm directed at drugs and alcohol.  In fact, surveys show that youth are at four times the risk of adults for developing compulsive gambling.  It is no surprise, since many states have legalized and glamorized various forms of gambling.  Some examples include state lotteries, playing horses, and casino gambling.  Because o these temptations, gambling is very common among today’s teenagers.  In New Jersey alone, 90% of 3000 students questioned had gambled at least once a year, and 30% at least once a week.  For may, it is an addiction, but it can be treated.

If you already have a gambling problem you may be feeling very desperate or depressed.  Gambling has taken over your life and is a priority over food, sleep, common-sense and socialization.  In a way, a compulsive gambler is driven to gamble in the same way that an alcoholic needs a drink.  However, it didn’t start out that way.  What once may have been simple poker bets has now turned into an obsession.  So if you are just stating out with periodical gambling, you may be at risk of becoming a compulsive gambler.

The following is a trace of the progression of the problem.  Here are some factors to look for if you think you or a friend may have a problem.

· The "search for Action" or Winning phase:
In this stage, winning enhances your self-image and ego.  Losses are viewed as just being bad-luck.  Gambling may be considered your most exciting activity and can be day dreamed about to escape reality.  You may spend your free time or lunch breaks gambling.
· The Chase or Losing Phase:
Losses increase and self confidence plummets.  You may borrow money to get even and continue betting, or you may sell prized possessions to cover increasing bets.  Lies to loved ones and family disputes are more frequent.  Additionally, you may miss school, work or other events because of gambling activities.
· The "Desperation Phase" or Rock Bottom:
Gambling has become a full-blown obsession and it becomes harder to get even and pay off debts.  You may experience mood swings, start failing in school and commit crimes such as stealing or selling drugs to get money.  At this point you feel that nothing or no one comes before a bet.  In extreme cases, suicide is considered as an escape.

Fortunately, there is a safer and much better way of recovering.  Try the following steps:
Step I: Take stock of the situation.
	Ask yourself the following questions:
	-Where are you in the 3 above phases?
	-Do you still have any credibility or dignity left?
	-do you have huge debts?
	-Have you used illegal means to get money?
	-Are there impending legal problems?
	-Do you feel depressed, hopeless, or suicidal?
	-Is there anything in your life besides gambling?
Step II: Get support.
As much as you may not want to, talk to a friend or family member about your problem.  There are nationwide groups known as Gamblers Anonymous that have many local chapters.  Locate one near you.  (another group, Gam-Anon, is for family member to get support).  Also, consider getting counseling o help deal with underlying problems.  If the situation is really bad, or may need a more comprehensive treatment program.  You may find that you need a combination of Gambler’s Anonymous, group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy.

Step III: Create a plan of action.
· Stay away from any situation that may lure you in and abstain from all form of gambling.
· Make realistic, legal means of paying off debts.
· Stop giving into temptation.  Understand that life is full of frustration and you just have to tolerate them.
· Fund healthy sources for pleasure and relaxation.  Join sport or school/community club or activity that will provide challenge and excitement.
· Get a part-time job.  It will keep you busy, boost your confidence and make you feel in charge of your own life.

Step IV: Develop a new mental outlook.
· Become honest and respect yourself and others
· Feel good about yourself.  Make a list of what makes you a good person now; and what can make you an even better person.
· Balance other people’s needs and feelings against your own.. Do not become totally self-absorbed.
· Gain confidence and develop healthy relationships with family and friends.  Become involved in your family but remember to keep clear boundaries between you and others.  Everyone is responsible for his or her own business.
· Believe in yourself.  Look in the mirror and say aloud "I can change."
Step V: Prevent relapses.
Don’t test yourself with tempting situations, even a simple poker game.
If you can answer any of the following questions, you may have a compulsive gambling problem:
1.  Do you lose time from school due to gambling?
2.  Have your grades dropped because of gambling?
3.  Do you have an intense interest in sports in TV and in literature?
4.  Do you make a few calls a week to sports phone or your state lottery?
5.  Have references to gambling increased in your conversation?
6.  Do you flash large amounts of money or show an exaggerated display of Clothes or jewelry?
7.  Did you ever gamble to escape worry or trouble?
8.  Have family o friends noticed a change in your behavior or personality? (e.g. irritable, impatient or sarcastic?)
9.  Do arguments, disappointments or frustrations urge you to gamble?
10.  Did you ever do anything illegal to finance your gambling?

Remember:  It’s never to soon or too late to change your ways!