Compulsive gambling is the uncontrollable urge to gamble, even when it takes a dangerous toll on one’s life. Gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol, leading to addiction. Compulsive gambling is a serious condition that can destroy lives.
According to the National Council on Public Gambling, six to eight million Americans meet criteria for gambling addiction. Signs of problem gambling include becoming restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling; lying about gambling to loved ones; and developing financial problems due to gambling. Gambling disorders are associated with a wide range of problems, including depression, domestic violence, bankruptcy, substance abuse and suicide.
A statewide proclamation was signed on March 1 in support of national Gambling Awareness Month. The proclamation declared gambling disorders as a significant public health concern that affects thousands of Louisianans. The proclamation also declares gambling treatment as effective in minimizing harm to individuals, their families and society as a whole.
“Gambling addiction can overtake lives,” said Dr. Monteic A. Sizer, NE Delta HSA executive director. “Its effects can be devastating to families and communities, too. We offer services through all of our clinics to treat this serious disorder. We also contract with a gambling addiction specialist who travels throughout our region to meet with citizens in their own communities. Gambling addiction treatment is another example of how NE Delta HSA provides greater access to the quality, competent care our citizens need, delivered with a high level of customer service.”
NE Delta HSA provides professional treatment for gambling disorders. Free group and individual gambling treatment is available in all of the 12 parishes that we serve. Call 1-877-770-STOP or 318-331-8270 to obtain treatment information and to find out when the NE Delta HSA gambling prevention specialist will be in your community.
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About Northeast Delta Human Services Authority (Northeast Delta HSA)
Northeast Delta HSA directs the operation of community-based programs to improve the quality of life of people with major mental illness, developmental disabilities and addictive disorders. Northeast Delta HSA is devoted to deliver programs and services that encourage people to reach their true human potential.
Three tenets guide our efforts: excellent customer service, greater access to services and competent, quality care. Northeast Delta HSA serves citizens in 12 parishes of northeastern Louisiana: Caldwell, East Carroll, West Carroll, Ouachita, Lincoln, Madison, Franklin, Morehouse, Jackson, Tensas, Richland and Union. For more information, please visit our website at www.nedeltahsa.org or call 318-362-3270.
Media Contact:
Jill Hirsekorn
Northeast Delta HSA Public Information Director
2513 Ferrand Street, Monroe, LA 71201
Phone 318-362-5482
NE Delta HSA Press & Media
https://www.nedeltahsa.org/
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