Despite the fact that millions of people suffer from gambling addiction, many members of the public still do not recognize the condition as an illness that generally requires help from drug rehab facilities. Experts say that this can make it harder for individuals to seek help for their condition.

Therapist Susie Harrigan told local news station KOTV of Oklahoma that gambling can become a compulsive act in the same way that a heroin addict seeks drugs. The addict has little control over their behavior and it doesn't matter if they have to resort to dishonest means to get money for gambling.

She told the news source that this kind of addiction in families can tear loved ones apart by creating significant financial strain. Additionally, the family members of a person with a gambling problem may have a hard time trusting the addict.

However, there is hope for those with the condition. While gambling addiction is a progressive illness that will get worse over time if left untreated, Gamblers Anonymous says that therapy and help from drug rehab facilities often helps individuals deal with the condition and eventually control it.