There are an estimated 370,000 compulsive and problem gamblers in the UK, and some 6.6 million in the US. Both numbers can easily be doubled considering that for each compulsive gambler there is at least one concerned "significant other". Numbers are rising annually, particularly in the UK, due to the softening of gambling advertising laws, an increase in casinos, and the popularity of internet gambling. In the USA, many industry insiders predict a return to internet gambling (stopped in 06 by banning deposits to internet casinos). The recession may also make some people more willing to take risks with their finances. This book analyses how and why people - from those with high incomes to the ordinary housewife or struggling student - gamble compulsively, and looks at how to stop.