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How can I help someone with a gambling problem? (lemmy.ca)

submitted 1 year ago by m0darn@lemmy.ca to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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My neighbour (40/m) ("N") confided that his recently retired father (70/m) ("G") has started going to the casino twice a day (all day but he comes home for dinner).

G's losses affect the food they eat (multi generational household).

N doesn't really know what to do. I'm not so concerned for N, moreso his mother/G's wife.

It's not my business but, when I was a kid my boyscout leader committed suicide after gambling away his house so I'm pretty sensitive to this sort of thing. I'd like to help if I can.

Any advice?

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[–] intensely_human@lemm.ee 7 points 1 year ago

Hang out with them and show a genuine interest in their feelings. See them on a regular basis, like breakfast every Saturday morning.

When they speak, listen fully. Make sure they are seen for who they really are.

Do what you can to help heal the empty spot they’re trying to fill with their addiction, keeping in mind what you can do is limited.