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Gambling can start as a harmless activity – an occasional trip to the casino, a friendly poker game, or a quick bet on a sports event. But for some, it becomes more than just entertainment. Problem gambling is a serious issue affecting millions, leading to financial hardship, emotional distress, and strained relationships. At LESC, the focus is on providing real solutions to gambling addiction to help individuals regain control of their lives.
Through challenges and triumphs, LESC’s commitment to serving the community has grown stronger with a new Problem Gambling program and an ever-expanding team.
Problem gambling casts a wide net, affecting individuals from diverse backgrounds. At LESC, we recognize the unique challenges different communities face and strive to provide specialized support. “We are seeing a growing demand for multilingual support, particularly within the Chinese immigrant community,” explains Carol Deng, Director of Dual Recovery services at LESC. “Many individuals in this community may turn to gambling as a way to cope with isolation or depression, and language barriers can prevent them from seeking help. Our goal is to remove those barriers.”
Beyond language, a significant obstacle to recovery is the reluctance to seek assistance. “There’s a lot of shame associated with problem gambling,” Carol notes. “Many people feel they should be able to ‘fix’ it themselves, but addiction doesn’t work that way. Without support, it often gets worse.” This sense of shame and denial creates a barrier to accessing crucial resources.
Financial hardship compounds the problem. Problem gambling frequently leads to severe debt, pushing individuals to desperate measures in an attempt to recoup losses. LESC addresses these financial challenges through counseling and guidance, helping individuals regain stability.
Understanding the demographics of those affected is crucial. “Most of our clients are male,” Carol observes, “and we see a lot of young adults, particularly those involved in sports gambling.” This highlights the prevalence of problem gambling among young men and those engaged in online sports betting.
Furthermore, problem gambling doesn’t discriminate based on socioeconomic status. “Many of our clients have more financial stability than those struggling with substance use,” Carol points out. This underscores that individuals from all walks of life, including those with stable jobs and financial resources, can fall victim to problem gambling.
One of the most significant challenges LESC faces is maintaining client engagement. “Clients often initiate treatment but struggle to stay engaged, believing they can manage the problem themselves,” Carol explains. “And many don’t acknowledge their own issues, saying they’re only here because of family pressure.” This speaks to the denial and lack of self-awareness that often accompany gambling addiction, making consistent treatment difficult.
Through partnerships with the Problem Gambling Resource Center, LESC is expanding its outreach efforts to provide accessible treatment options. Their services include:
“Our approach is very client-centered,” explains Carol. “Some people don’t necessarily want to stop gambling altogether – they just want to reduce their gambling and regain control. We tailor our support to fit their individual needs.” We recognize that recovery is a journey, not a destination. Instead of imposing rigid expectations, we meet individuals where they are, focusing on harm reduction and incremental progress.
“In the beginning, psychoeducation is crucial in helping individuals understand what constitutes healthy, acceptable gambling behavior and how to regain control,” Carol emphasizes. LESC equips clients with the knowledge and tools to understand the nature of their gambling addiction and make informed choices. This includes educating them on the difference between healthy and harmful gambling behaviors.
For those seeking help, LESC offers a structured yet compassionate approach. “If someone reaches out to us, the first thing we do is listen. We want to understand their experience without judgment,” says Carol. “From there, we connect them with specialists who can help them develop a recovery plan.”
The process may involve:
“Even if you’re unsure whether you have a gambling problem, it’s better to ask questions than to wait until it gets worse,” Carol emphasizes. “There is no downside to seeking help – only potential for a better future.”
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but help is available. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you or someone you know is struggling. “Don’t be afraid, don’t be scared. Don’t hesitate to even ask questions,” Carol urges. “Just give me a call. Just call us. We’re here.”
To learn more about problem gambling and to assess your risk, please take a look at the South Oaks Gambling Screen tool or the OASAS Gambling Screening assessment.
Together, we can break the cycle of addiction and build a healthier community.
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Recovery is a process. That’s why the programs at LESC are not time-sensitive, they’re goal-sensitive. We work to address the individual needs of clients at every level, so they can become productive citizens in the communities where they live.
A healthier, more fulfilling life can be yours. Call or email us now to arrange a screening interview. A trained intake counselor is waiting to help you begin the admissions process.
Call: (347) 538-2632
Or email us at: info@lesc.org
We’re committed to nurturing resilient recovery through a program of treatment, supportive housing, education, and energized community engagement. Discover the relationships, the resources, and the safe and sound support system to begin your journey.
