The military and veterans are at greater risk than the general public for developing problem gambling, a serious mental health condition. The Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling offers active military and Veterans information on problem gambling and how to get help.
Meet Glenn
A decorated and dedicated Marine deployed in middle-east danger zones, Glenn finds his life spiraling out of control when he develops a gambling problem and starts engaging in illegal activities to get money for gambling. With overwhelming financial and legal problems, he loses his security clearance and is subsequently court martialed resulting in incarceration. Losing his career, family and friend, at times he’s homeless, living on the street.
Treatment, relapses, and returns to treatment—his gambling disorder is the most dangerous enemy he’s ever confronted. Finally, in a structured VA domiciliary program, Glenn channels his forceful Marine determination and strength towards recovery. “If I wanted to live, I had to stop gambling.” Today, his career as a readjustment counselor for the VA, brings him great rewards in helping others with gambling problems. With renewed trust in himself, Glenn enters into a relationship. With his marriage to Amy, he continues to grow each day alongside his wife, who admires the victories and courage of her marine.
Most military personnel and veterans are unaware of the dangers of problem gambling or that it is a treatable medical condition. Certain things may make people more susceptible such as financial distress, alcohol consumption, PTSD, substance abuse, or mental health problem.
"Military culture and gambling seem to go hand in hand. A lot of the things we do in the military are very similar -- risk taking, all or nothing, wins and losses, plus the on-going competitiveness. We don’t want to sound weak. We don’t want to let down our fellow military active-duty members, our fellow marines, sailors, airmen, so at work, we don’t tell anyone. We don’t tell anyone at home. We don’t tell our spouses. We don’t ask for help because by asking for help, we believe we could risk our career."
Safety Tips
- Always set a limit, and stick to it.
- Never take a credit card, debit card, or check book to a casino.
- Remember, gambling is a risk. Winning is not a sure thing.
- Pay your bills first, do not use money needed for essentials on gambling.
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
*THE APPEARANCE OF U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE (DoD) VISUAL INFORMATION DOES NOT IMPLY OR CONSTITUTE DOD ENDORSEMENT
Get Help.
No Cost Treatment is Available for Anyone Wanting Help for a Gambling Problem
Counseling for gambling problems at no cost to Maryland residents is now available for anyone seeking help regardless of insurance coverage, financial status, or ability to pay. You, or someone you know, can receive help for a gambling problem without adding any additional financial burden to your life.
1-800-GAMBLER
Call or text TODAY! 1-800-426-2537