GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS has reported a big increase in young men seeking help, a trend it attributes to the rise in internet gambling.
While compulsive gamblers come from all walks of life, most tend to be men, and a growing number are aged between 20 and 30, said Joe, the organisation's public relations officer.
"When I gambled, I gambled in the local bookies. When he closed for the day, I stopped gambling. Now all you need is a credit card and a phone and you can do it 24 hours a day."
Traffic on the organisation's website has also increased significantly as the opportunities for gambling in society multiply.
Joe, who has not placed a bet in 10 years since seeking help, works under cover of anonymity, in common with other volunteers with Gamblers Anonymous.
He says gambling is "a hidden addiction" because sufferers show few visible symptoms.
"If you drink too much, you'll eventually fall over, but it's very hard to spot a compulsive gambler," said Joe.
Eventually, warning signs may emerge, he says; these may include compulsive lying, unpaid financial bills or unexplained loans.
In many cases, help is sought first by a family member rather than by the addict himself. Recovery rates are lower than for alcoholics.
In the coming weeks the organisation is holding a number of meetings aimed at increasing awareness of the problem.
These Awareness Weeks meetings are open to gamblers, their families or friends and the public.
The first meeting takes place in The Lodge, Clonsilla, at 8pm next Sunday.
Further meetings are planned for Huntstown, Navan Road, Rialto, Phibsborough, Tallaght and Ballyfermot at various dates until September 25th.
More information is available from www.gamblersanonymous.ie or by telephoning 01 8721133.
