The Council for Compulsive Gambling New Jersey

Disordered Gambling Correlated to Poor Public Health, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey

 

Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/02/2016 -- The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) has long compiled information pertaining to disordered gambling and its mental and physical health risks. With the aim of helping problem gamblers, their loved ones and mental health professionals better understand the public health implications of widespread problem gambling, the Council has shared information on the correlation between problem gambling, mental health and physical health.

Problem gamblers tend to suffer from poor health at a much higher rate than non-disordered gamblers. This is due in part to the heightened substance use that tends to happen during gambling episodes. Problem gamblers tend to smoke, drink alcohol and/or use other controlled substances while they gamble, which leads to a host of interrelated health problems. Smoking can cause cardiovascular and respiratory diseases as well as cancer, while excessive alcoholism can damage the liver, heart and brain, as well as cause cancer and diabetes. Additionally, the use of illegal substances or excess alcohol can lead to health problems related to the risky behaviors associated with intoxication.

Problem gambling, whether online poker or skill-based gambling in Atlantic City casinos, also affects mental health. Problem gamblers suffering from depression and/or anxiety may have picked up their habit as an escape from these pervasive disorders, but a gambling addiction only worsens their symptoms. Prolonged depression and anxiety about financial losses from gambling can lead to stress, insomnia, irritability and suicide.

These are just a few of the public health consequences that arise from disordered gambling. The CCGNJ's website hosts dozens of brochures and similar educational resources on problem gambling, including specialized topics such as youth and senior gambling in Atlantic City and elsewhere in NJ. The CCGNJ also runs a 24/7, confidential hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER, to help those struggling with gambling addiction find the support, treatment and hope they need to recover their health.

Learn more by visiting http://www.800gambler.org.

About The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to helping individuals seek help for their compulsive gambling problem, and for concerned friends and loved ones to confidentially express their concerns about someone close to them. Their 24/7 hotline is 800-GAMBLER. The Council also works to train professionals in the fields of gambling addiction and recovery.

For more information, please visit http://www.800gambler.org.