I also am dealing with a gambler's pathology. The sucker really does make it easy to kid yourself about having a problem initially. The slide down takes a while, probably because there are no physical symptoms until you are so far into debt that stress makes you crazy. I haven't placed a bet since 4-19-07. Counseling helped a bit and so did Gamblers Anonymous, a 12-step program based on Alcoholics Anonymous. Remember, this pathology is sneakiest when you think you've got it licked. Be well.