Gambling has boosted PA's economy, but also increased addicts

Ever notice how no one asks how much government sponsored Gambling Addiction costs?


Gambling has boosted PA's economy, but also increased addicts
Reported by: Kirk Wilson
Contributor: Nate Wardle

While proceeds benefit the casinos, state and local governments and some patrons, other players can become big-time losers. CBS 21 explored the pain of gambling addiction.

Current estimates suggest that three percent of the adult population will experience a serious problem with gambling. That can result in significant debt, family disruption, job losses and criminal activity.

Debra Thompson is a state-certified gambling addiction counselor. She says the first step to recovery is accepting the fact you're addicted.

She introduced us to a young man who is a recovering gambling addict and wishes to remain anonymous. He says after first talking to a counselor he realized the seriousness of his problem and how ne needed to change.

“Financially it really was affecting everything, bills and all and its was making the home very unhappy,” stated the recovering addict.

He says realizing the consequences of his condition have kept him on the straight and narrow.