Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers [Paperback]

Christopher Krebs (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 2000

For problem gamblers, games of chance become a preoccupation. They need to bet more money more frequently. They feel restless or irritable when they try to stop. Eventually, they can lose control entirelyobetting everything on one more hand no matter the risks to themselves or their families.

Like any addiction, compulsive gambling takes its toll on the family. It causes instability, loss of trust, and financial hardship. Uncontrolled gambling can lead to dangerous family dynamics like denial, codependence, blaming, withdrawal, and isolation. Based on extensive research at the Center for Problem Gambling in Bedford, MA, this book offers problem gamblers and their families a step-by-step program of cognitive-behavioral strategies for beating the odds and escaping the trap of gambling addiction.

Product Details

• Paperback: 200 pages
• Publisher: New Harbinger Publications (July 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1572242000
• ISBN-13: 978-1572242005
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #378,708 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Enlightening, Thorough, Extremely helpful, July 11, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers (Paperback)

I thought this book was extremely enlightening and thorough in it coverage of the disease of compulsive gambling. It is an excellent resource for families of compulsive gamblers in 1) understanding the disease 2) guiding families and friends of gamblers in the actions they need to take in order to protect themselves as well as in helping the gambler move closer to recovery. In addition, this book provides treatment resource info and some evaluation as to the effectiveness of those type of treatments. This book is a comprehensive guide for the families of compulsive gamblers. Extremely helpful and easy to understand.. A++

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Don't miss this book, June 11, 2001

By 

Mary Flanagan (New York) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers (Paperback)

I found this book helpful, realistic, and compassionate. Don't Leave It To Chance explores myths and misconceptions about gambling, helps us identify the extent of the problem, and guides us through the emotional and financial impact of the disorder. The authors skillfully bring us to a place where we can build a meaningful dialogue with family members, work through anger, anxiety and loss of trust, and begin the process of regeneration with new momentum and understanding. The scope is comprehensive with a style that is personal, enjoyable and logically consistent. I was amazed with the depth of insight into motivation, emotional issues and relationships I was collecting along the way. Written with deep psychological understanding and genuine concern, Don't Leave It To Chance sorts through the difficult emotions of this complex issue, teaching skills for introspection and communication that will serve readers in all aspects of their lives.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Not quite enough...., August 29, 2010

By 

GM - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Don't Leave It to Chance: A Guide for Families of Problem Gamblers (Paperback)

This book had some good information, however, it doesn't seem to really cover all scenarios......like the one where the individual is difficult to talk to and is not ready to admit to his addiction. It teaches you how to have a conversation with someone who is willing to have one. If your partner is unwilling to speak to you about it, it leaves you out in the cold as to what you should do next - even if just for yourself. It clearly states you should not leave, but doesn't tell you what you should do. I also was looking for some information that would help me determine if I am enabling the gambling, but that subject did not get covered either. It seems like a book that is better for a therapist or someone who already has some of the basic knowledge associated with this kind of addiction.