How can you save this professional loser's life?

How can you save this professional loser's life?

"John Doe", a very degenerated gambler & a professional loser, had confessed to me these:

1) He had lost $30,000 to his favorite casino just last weekend & wasted some 1/2 million dollars so far,

2) He loses all interest in his job, wife & family,

3) He just can not stop gambling even though he had tried GA meetings, and

4) He joked that jumping off the parking deck may be his only way out sooner or later (I don't think he's joking because he's so depressed after losing all those doughs).

I feel bad that I don't know how to help the poor guy with SOS written all over his face. Perhaps you guys can give me some ideas in how to solve his problem. Several weeks ago, I posted something about Dr Jack Kevorkian and his contributions to society. I asked how can APs contribute to society like Dr. Jack. Now it's your chance. You guys can save John Doe's life indirectly and thus contribute to society in a positive way. I'll definitely run into him again during my next visit to that casino. I'm sure that he will speak to me as if I were his shrink, and I'll pass on your good ideas to him at that time. I look forward to reading your ideas.

"Am I my brothers keeper?" (Genesis 4:9)

Compulsive gambling, like drug/alcohol abuse is just a symptom of a deeper mental/emotional problem. Truthfully, all anyone can do is be supportive and offer solutions, but ultimately it is up to the individual to help themselves. If he doesn't really want to change, there is NOTHING anyone can do. I think GA is a good start. I would also suggest finding a good counselor. I doubt that teaching this guy to become an advantage player is the solution.

In previous posts you have read my rants about 12-step programs which basically say you are powerless against whatever addiction you have. This is my solution.

Give this guy a card or a piece of paper that he can carry with him or put on his steering wheel. Whenever he feels the urge to gamble, he reads its contents: "I am in control." He may need to repeat it several times.

Note that this will only help if he truly wants to stop. If he doesn't, nothing will help, and you should find a new friend.

Panama Rick's 1 step program: I am in control.

Panama Rick's 1 step program: I am in control.

Great post.

1.) PSYCHOLOGICAL: John must go through a period of hell - where he knows he has finances to his disposal, but yet he can't get to them. Such an environment must be provided. It's up to his will and competence to create such terrible circumstances. Look, the drive to get better will fuel this. HE MUST GO THROUGH IT, AND HE MUST GO THROUGH IT AGAIN AND AGAIN, UNTIL IT SUBSIDES. The human body, i.e. the brain, is an amazing adaptive organism. Through your captive torture, you will relearn and ABSTINANCE WILL BE EFFORTLESS. That's it (no 2 will aid things).

2.) NUTRITIONAL: Avoid refine sugar at all costs. Pure sugar is terrible regarding any addiction for that matter. Avoid artificial, processed crap as well. Consider a multi vitamin supplement. Consume more omega 3 acids, more natural antioxidants found in fresh (now it's summer, berries) and vegetables. I'm more to call this diet silly than you, but it's profound.