Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/11/2016 -- For many, Veterans Day is a holiday not so much of celebration as it is of quiet reflection and gratitude. Veterans Day is reserved for remembering those who have served their country and for honoring veterans and those who are currently in the military. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), a non-profit that advocates for the treatment of disordered gambling (in all of its forms, including illegal sports betting in AC and throughout the state), takes this time to note the high prevalence of disordered gambling among military veterans and active-duty members.
For veterans, gambling addiction often begins while serving in the military. Gambling is available on military bases as a form of entertainment during downtime. While gambling is strictly intended as a form of entertainment, some gamblers find themselves using the activity as a means of escapism, leading them to habitually wager much more they can afford on the next win.
Given the extreme levels of stress to which military personnel are exposed, it is an unfortunate but unsurprising fact that military veterans (according to one study) suffer from twice the rate of gambling addiction than the general population. Additionally, 17% of veterans being treated for post-traumatic stress disorder show symptoms of problem gambling, and many dealing with problem gambling also have co-occurring conditions such as mental disorders or substance use disorder. However, according to Neva Pryor, Executive Director of the CCGNJ, with the right recovery resources, there is hope for active-duty members and veterans who struggle with problem gambling.
The CCGNJ thanks all veterans and those currently serving in the military for their courageous service. The Council urges anyone struggling with problem gambling or concerned about a loved one's illegal betting for sports in Atlantic City (or elsewhere) to contact their toll-free hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER. It is never too late for support, treatment and hope. Learn more at 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 disordered 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.