Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWire) -- 08/02/2016 --Disordered gambling and its dizzying cycle of losses, wins, emotional highs and financial devastations do not have isolated effects. The loved ones and family members of affected gamblers are also often hit hard by this addiction, says the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), which runs a gambling help hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER. This impact includes problems with money, emotional problems, domestic violence and other physical and mental health problems. The CCGNJ recently shared information on how families and children are affected by problem gambling, as well as the warning signs of living with a problem gambler.

Those who suspect that they are living with a problem gambler may recognize several warning signs. The CCGNJ says that some of the most common are finance-related. In households with a problem gambler, bills are not often paid on time (or at all) and family members will hide money, credit cards and checks from the problem gambler in their family. The gambler may make excuses for their actions, seem emotionally distant and lash out with verbal or physical abuse when confronted with an attempted discussion about their problem. Family members may lose sleep or see their health decline from stress and anxiety over the problem gambler's actions.

Problem gambling also affects children in distinct ways. Children who live with a problem gambler will often feel neglected or angry. They may become stressed and turn to substance abuse to cope with their feelings. Additionally, they may believe that they caused the problems in their family, assume the role of a primary caregiver or feel the need to take sides in arguments between parents or other family members. These stresses can have a long-term impact on the child's overall well-being.

The CCGNJ urges that those living with a problem gambler, or experiencing a gambling addiction themselves, seek help immediately. It's never too late to reach out for support, treatment and hope. By calling the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline, those affected will have immediate access to professionals who can help them find Gamblers Anonymous meetings in NJ and other recovery resources.

Learn more at http://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.