The FCCG provides a wide array of written materials to help seekers that are both population and problem gambling specific as well as general in nature. Problem gambling specific brochures, fact sheets, bookmarks, workbooks, toolkits, research and posters are offered in English and Spanish (and Creole in certain instances) and provided through the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine in a variety of formats, such as hard-copy, digital pdf, as video or audio files and discs. FCCG literature offerings serve as a means of reaching out to target populations who may be unable to seek other avenues of help due to a variety of reasons, such as transportation issues, language and/or cultural barriers. The FCCG also provides specific resources through the HelpLine for affected others, loved ones, like spouses, significant others, family members and friends.
FCCG HelpLine literature packets, which include multiple population-specific resources for help for both gamblers and loved ones, such as brochures, toolkits, recovery workbooks, and research, are provided to HelpLine contacts immediately at the time of contact in electronic format and mailed within 24 hours if requested by mail.
A Chance for Change Recovery Workbook Series©
The FCCG has developed and produced a seven-part series of self-help recovery workbooks targeting problem gamblers, loved ones and senior compulsive gamblers. Titled “A Chance for Change,” the workbooks are designed to act as a self-help program for persons suffering from the adverse effects of problem and compulsive gambling. The FCCG’s “A Chance for Change” recovery workbook series, closely examines how persons can escape the grips of problem and compulsive gambling through such strategies as creating and maintaining a plan for positive change, dealing with financial and legal problems, and taking charge of one’s life. Additional resources for statewide and national assistance, as well as professional treatment, self-help groups and additional print resources are also listed.
The overall goal of “A Chance of Change” program is to help persons experiencing gambling related difficulties to eliminate self-defeating negative behaviors, to think clearly and to make better decisions that can lead to a healthier lifestyle. The workbooks can be used either independently, or in conjunction with support groups or professional counseling.
Within each workbook series, the FCCG’s “A Chance for Change” program covers topics including but not limited to getting started, assessing one’s state of mind, triggers and boundary setting, managing finances, gaining a handle on legal related issues, navigating new terrain and keeping the focus.
Each of the three series consists of seven workbooks, with workbook specifics as follows:
Gambler Series
❖ Book One – Do You Have a Gambling Problem?
❖ Book Two – Beginning the Process of Change
❖ Book Three – Staying the Course
❖ Book Four – Managing Your Finances
❖ Book Five – Understanding Legal Issues
❖ Book Six – Rebuilding Your Life
❖ Book Seven – Healing Your Way to a New Beginning
Loved Ones Series
❖ Book One – Getting Started
❖ Book Two – Assessing Your State of Mind
❖ Book Three – Triggers and Relapse
❖ Book Four – Managing Finances
❖ Book Five – Legal Related Issues
❖ Book Six – Revitalizing Your Family
❖ Book Seven – Navigating New Terrain
Senior Series
❖ Book One – Are You at Risk?
❖ Book Two – Beginning the Process of Change
❖ Book Three – Creating and Maintaining Your Plan for Positive Change
❖ Book Four – Financial Problems and Solutions
❖ Book Five – Legal Problems and Solutions
❖ Book Six – Creating a New Life Plan
❖ Book Seven – Motivating Yourself to Keep Going
Financial Debt & Budgeting Toolkit©
The FCCG’s Financial Debt & Budgeting Toolkit© is a financial budgeting assistance program that provides financial guidance and accountability for problem gamblers and loved ones through peer supports. The budgeting plan is developed based upon the available income (or amount of money coming in), regular bills that need to be paid (i.e. rent/mortgage, utilities, food, etc.), and the amount of gambling related debts that may be owed. Through the Peer Connect Program, utilization of the Budget Toolkit can help problem gamblers and family members develop goals and measures to sustain a budget and help ensure long-term positive financial sustainability.
It can be overwhelming to know where to start with problem gambling resources. Contact the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today, and speak to a Specialist who will listen to your situation and connect you with the best literature and other resources for gambling addiction, whether you are worried about your own gambling or that of a loved one. Best of all, your contact to the HelpLine is completely free and confidential.
