Spring 1997

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) was established in 1957 to provide an opportunity for problem gamblers to "stop gambling and to help other compulsive gamblers do the same." (Gamblers Anonymous, 1992) Since that time, GA meetings have been held throughout the country to offer men and women a forum to share their experiences, strength, and hope with each other to solve their common problems and help others recover from a gambling problem.

Given the dramatic increase in gambling choices in Minnesota during the past few years, it is not surprising that GA has also grown significantly. According to local resources, the first GA meeting in Minnesota was held in 1974 with two people in attendance. A second GA meeting was started in 1980, as well the first GamAnon meeting. Figure 3 shows the growth of meetings from 1 in 1973 to 23 in 1990 and more than doubling to 57 in 1997. According to Judy G., "Minnesota now ranks fourth behind Montana, Nevada and South Dakota in the number of GA meetings per capita."

Despite the growth of GA, there is an ever increasing need for easily accessible and convenient compulsive gambling meetings. Clients who complete treatment for compulsive gambling often have a difficult time finding conveniently located and regularly scheduled meetings to attend as part of their aftercare program.

There are three sources for information on GA meetings: contact the GA Hotline 1(612)922-3956, the Minnesota Compulsive Gambling Hotline 1(800)437-3641.