Living with someone who is addicted to gambling can be a very trying situation. No matter how much you beg, plead, or threaten, the gambler isn’t likely to stop just because you ask him to. In fact, he or she may hide their gambling activities so you will not know how much money they are spending. If at all possible, separate your money from the addict’s money so that you won’t suffer losses as well.
It may depend on the type of relationship you have as to what is the best way to handle the situation when you are living with a gambling addict. If the addict is your parent, you will undoubtedly keep loving them; however, you may want to move out if this is possible. If the gambling addict is your spouse, it can be much more difficult to deal with the situation. While you can offer an ultimatum, be prepared to follow through if you do, because as much as some gambling addicts want to stop the harmful behavior, they are unable to do so on their own.
Before you do anything, educate yourself regarding resources that are available to problem gamblers and their families. While you can ask or encourage the gambler to go to meetings, even if they do not want to go, it may be helpful for you to seek support from others who are in the same situation. This may give you ideas on how to handle your situation and it may help you to plan for the future, should a change be warranted.
Not everyone who gambles has a gambling problem. Even if you do not like gambling, do not assume that just because someone gambles, whether online or offline, that they are a gambling addict. Many individuals gamble responsibly. They choose to gamble as a form of entertainment instead of going to the theater or instead of paying for other entertainment venues. Most responsible gamblers set a budget and abide by it. However, if you notice the gambler in your home hides the fact that they gamble or is vague about money, there may be a problem.