Family Financial Feuds: When Mom or Dad Is Gambling Away Financial Security

Good for you. I am glad that you were able to handle it on your own. While I agree that people should be open minded and believe that it CAN be done on their own, I also believe that it is equally as important to be open minded enough to understand that there may be people in the world that aren't like you and can't just do it on their own. Everyone is different. People who can stop on their own DO and those who can't (or think they can't) either continue with their addiction and allow it to destory their life or they get help. By the way, if you can "handle" going only a few times a year and only spend "$20" when you do go - maybe your 'problem' was less of a 'problem' than you think. If it only got out of control and you were able to pull control back in -- it is less likely that you are an addict and more just someone who got out of control who pulled it back in. Addiction is a real disease. If it weren't - insurance wouldn't cover it.

I understand that gambling can be a huge problem (I was a casual( bingo, keno) gambler for years, caused me many problems. I decided to quit on my own (it is possible)and have never regretted it. I do occasionally go to a local hall, $20 only. When it's gone so am I.I go about 3 times a year. My real reason for writing is why should kids expect something from their parents, that the PARENTS worked hard for, I have seen so many close friends families torn up over what they were entitled to?? after Mom or Dad pass on. Who r these people? Who raised them? Some are real monsters could care less about parent just what's in it for me!