Counseling enter offers free gambling screenings in Elgin

Submitted by Renz Center

While most people cannot imagine losing their home or job as a result of hitting the slots, playing poker or participating in the office football pool, for millions of Americans it’s a reality every year. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, “1 million U.S. adults are estimated to meet criteria for pathological gambling in a given year, while another 4-6 million would be considered problem gamblers.”

During National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, “Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime.” Renz Addiction Counseling Center is offering free gambling assessment screenings and treatment at their Two American Way location in Elgin.

“If you are gambling more than once a week and lying about it to family and friends,” said Renz Center’s Certified Gambling Counselor Patti Anderson, “you may have a gambling problem. Renz Center is offering the gambling assessment free to encourage people to get tested before their addiction compromises their personal, family and career pursuits.”

Signs of a gambling problem include loss of interest and participation in normal activities with friends and families, time unaccounted for, missing possessions or assets, and changes in attitude and personality. Gambling problems may also be evidenced by neglect of personal needs, such as food, utilities and medical, secrecy, and avoidance when discussing time and money, and depression.

Renz Center provides a continuum of care dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of addictive behaviors related to alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Services range from prevention programs for youth in the schools to outpatient treatment programs for adolescents and adults. Offices are located in Elgin, St. Charles, and Streamwood.

Renz Addiction Counseling Center is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the federal government, Central Kane County United Way, Illinois Department of Human Services, Hanover Township, Geneva, and St. Charles 708 boards and other local community organizations. To find out more about Renz Center’s programs, call (847) 742-3545 or visit www.renzcenter.org.