According to the New York Council on Problem Gambling, 1 million New Yorkers have a gambling problem. National Problem Gambling Awareness Week, March 7-13, gives us an opportunity to talk about this rarely discussed addiction that can have a life-changing and often swiftly devastating impact on individuals - and on their families.

For the overwhelming majority of people, gambling is a harmless pastime. However, the expansion and accessibility of gambling opportunities has created growing numbers of people who are being towed under. During my 24-year history of aiding problem gamblers in their recovery, I have seen the misery that problem gambling brings. Savings, pensions, 401k funds - wiped out. Jobs, homes, cars - lost. Families are left drained financially and emotionally. Under these circumstances, some problem gamblers see theft, embezzlement, or even suicide as a solution.

Often people say, "I don't understand why he lost all that money?" or "Why didn't she just stop?" The truth is that a problem gambler cannot just stop, anymore than someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol can just "say no." The only way to stop the cycle is to recognize and treat problem gambling as the addiction that it truly is.

But where to start? Problem gambling is often referred to as the "hidden disease" because there are not the blatant or overtly physical signs that are associated with most addictions, such as drugs and alcohol. Addicts seem perfectly normal to their loved ones, supervisors, and co-workers until they reach a tipping point - and by that time, literally thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars may have been lost, stolen, or embezzled. Even then the gambler may deny that there is a problem. But once revealed, family members or significant others must gather the strength to step up and demand, "Get help or else." Those words have saved many relationships and lives.

Problem gambling isn't easy for the individual with the habit, or the people around them. But one thing is sure: once that house of cards starts to fall, it will fall very fast and very hard.

Our message is clear. Caring people are here to help you. Confidential treatment can start today. If you or someone you love has a gambling problem call: 585-719-3432 or 1877-8 HOPE-NY. Warning signs are lised on the Problem Gamblers website.

RAYMOND B.T. SCOTT, ROCHESTER

Scott is program director of the DePaul Problem Gamblers Program.