Problem players are not new to the casino or other gaming venues

Implications: Is it possible to help the player with a serious gaming problem? It's hard to say, however, there has been a trend for many years to help these people. Can there be a stigma placed on gaming because there is problem gamblers all over the world? Only by the people that think they have the answers - that one cure solves it all, does not apply in this instance...

Analysis:  I have written about this subject in prior articles. It is a definite problem which can be handled by those that want help. There is not much hope for those avid gambles that don't want interference from anyone. In a sense, they share the blame for their weakness when it comes to gambling. The casinos and other gaming venues such as race tracks, dog racing have all ways wanted to help the problem and have, in some cases, instituted a program for their customers. The programs don't have a chance with out the willingness to get the help from the players.

Here is the real rub - is it really the business of these properties to seek out the problem gambler- or should the burden fall on the player? The thought that a casino dealer or a supervisor would have the training to spot a problem is just a far cry from their actual qualifications. It is also an intrusion on the customers rights and privileges. I must agree that there is a serious problem, however, a player must seek out the help, want the help and abide by the help. Very hard to do - having the problem and admitting to it is a far stretch.

Does this problem gambling hurt the gaming properties? The answer is no. The casinos and such will not suffer any bottom line effect from these unfortunate people. Regardless of the efforts being put forth by a vast majority of legal gaming entities, the bottom line is - help is there if they want to take advantage of it. The gaming industry has always put their best foot forward to try and help problem gamers.

It is as important to the gaming industry as the customers that there is help - the industry wants to stop the problem - they must be aided by the prolem players in their endeavor to help get the cure.......