Problem Gambling: Reaching Out For Help Posted On
If you’re a person struggling with gambling, and you’re reading this, you may have come to believe that your gambling is no longer for fun and entertainment. You may think that your gambling is causing problems in your life and you’d like to find out if you have a problem, and, wondering what you can do about it. If you’ve come to this realization, it may be time to reach out for help. You may be struggling with problem gambling.
Who can I reach out to?
If you’re interested in looking for some answers, start by reaching out for help by calling the New York State HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (or 1-877-846- 7369).
What happens when I call?
When you begin talking with a NYS HOPEline representative, you’ll find that you’re introduced to a caring person who isn’t judgemental. They are trained clinicians, who are simply there to help.
Language: You’ll first go through a brief recording that offers languages other than English, and explains the different services the NYS HOPEline can assist with.
Gambling Habits: This person will begin by asking questions about your gambling to determine the best way they can help you. Some questions include:
- How did you realize you may have a problem with gambling?
- Is your gambling affecting other functions of your life (example sleeping habits)?
- Have you ever thought about hurting yourself or others?
Demographics: After the NYS HOPEline representative has gathered some information about your gambling habits, and how they affect your personal life, the representative will ask for some demographic information, like your age and zip code. This information will allow them to find the correct services that may best suit your needs.
Help is Available: Once they know what’s available, they’ll explain the types of services. They’ll ask if you’re looking for a group to speak with, or a one-on-one counselor. Once you’ve told the representative what you’re comfortable with, they will begin giving you different places that offer services, which may include Gamblers Anonymous or local treatment centers.
The Next Step
Now that you have all this information about who to contact, and where they may be located, you may be uncomfortable making the next call. Make sure to ask the NYS HOPEline representative what you can expect from calling Gamblers Anonymous or a treatment center and they’ll go through what you could expect step-by-step. This will, hopefully, help you feel a bit more at ease about calling for help. Remember that help is out there because these professionals know that people need that help. They are not there to judge you. They are available to help because they care about you, and they care about their community.
If you, or a loved one, are struggling with problem gambling, please reach out and call the New York State HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (or 1-877-846- 7369).
You are not alone, and people are ready and willing to help!
