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How can I help someone with a gambling problem? (lemmy.ca)

submitted 1 year ago by m0darn@lemmy.ca to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

25 comments fedilink hide all child comments

My neighbour (40/m) ("N") confided that his recently retired father (70/m) ("G") has started going to the casino twice a day (all day but he comes home for dinner).

G's losses affect the food they eat (multi generational household).

N doesn't really know what to do. I'm not so concerned for N, moreso his mother/G's wife.

It's not my business but, when I was a kid my boyscout leader committed suicide after gambling away his house so I'm pretty sensitive to this sort of thing. I'd like to help if I can.

Any advice?

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[–] Kissaki@feddit.de 12 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

Talk to N and mother first. Open with your personal concern, and experience - to explain why you care, your good intention, and to give significance/urgency to the issue at hand

Offer your help in supporting them in their efforts. Discuss with them how they see it, the state they're in, what they can do and influence.

I'd consider two approaches - not one or the other, but chase/asses both.

Limit access to funds, secure funds for needs
Help them (G) with their addiction and spending - this is very dependent on their personality, view, openness, and personality + your approach to them. Working together with N and mother is essential

If they don't want your help, or don't see any approaches as feasible, accept it as it is and that you can only do so much and not help everyone even if it's in your capability and interest.