10 Gambling Addiction Books
When recovery feels uncertain, the right words can act like a lifeline. For many people in recovery, gambling addiction books have provided wisdom, encouragement, and the reassurance that they are not alone. Books can shift perspective, ease the weight of shame, and offer practical steps for rebuilding life after gambling. Whether you’re looking for professional guidance, relatable memoirs, or actionable tools, the pages of these books carry voices that understand what it means to heal.
The following list highlights some of the most trusted and recommended titles for people navigating recovery from gambling addiction. They combine research, lived experience, and practical strategies—making them steady companions for anyone ready to move forward.
Top 10 Gambling Addiction Books for Recovery
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1. Addiction by Design by Natasha Dow Schüll
This groundbreaking work explores the psychology of machine gambling and how casinos design experiences to keep players hooked. For readers who want to understand the science behind addiction, this book reveals why gambling can feel so hard to escape.
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Paperback | Kindle
2. The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook by Jody Bechtold & Alyssa Wilson
Used by therapists and recovery coaches, this evidence-based workbook provides exercises and strategies for addressing gambling addiction step by step. It’s ideal for those who want practical, hands-on tools.
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Paperback | Kindle
3. Overcoming Gambling by Philip Mawer
Philip Mawer offers straightforward strategies for breaking free from gambling while focusing on rebuilding trust, stability, and self-worth. A helpful choice for readers looking for guidance they can apply immediately.
4. Born to Lose: Memoirs of a Compulsive Gambler by Bill Lee
A raw and unfiltered account of one man’s descent into gambling addiction and his climb toward recovery. This memoir captures both the pain and the resilience of someone who has lived through it.
5. The Easy Way to Stop Gambling by Allen Carr
From the bestselling author of “The Easy Way to Stop Smoking,” this book applies Carr’s unique method to gambling addiction. It’s designed to shift the reader’s mindset and reduce the urge to gamble.
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Paperback | Kindle | Audiobook
6. Beating the Odds by Dr. Robert L. Custer
Dr. Custer was a pioneer in gambling addiction treatment, and this text remains a foundational resource. It provides insight into the psychology of compulsive gambling and practical recovery pathways. Search on eBay
7. Behind the 8-Ball by Linda Berman & Mary-Ellen Siegel
This book examines the emotional and relational consequences of gambling addiction, offering understanding for both those in recovery and their families.
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Paperback | Kindle
8. Gripped by Gambling by Marilyn Lancelot
One of the first women to speak openly about her gambling addiction, Marilyn Lancelot shares her personal recovery story with honesty and courage.
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Paperback | Kindle
9. Thinking About Gambling by Nick Heather
This accessible guide breaks down gambling behaviors and pathways to change. It’s written in a way that is approachable for both individuals in recovery and their loved ones. Book Review | Search on eBay
10. Gambling Disorder by Jon E. Grant & Marc N. Potenza
A clinical overview of gambling disorder, this book provides insight into neuroscience, diagnosis, and treatment approaches. Best for readers who want a deeper understanding of the medical perspective. Find on Amazon
Why Gambling Addiction Books Matter
Recovery can feel isolating, but books remind us that countless others have walked this path before. Each author, whether a researcher, clinician, or person in recovery, offers a perspective that can light the way forward. Sometimes, picking up the right book at the right time is enough to inspire the next step toward healing.
Choosing just one of these gambling addiction books can be a powerful start. Reading with an open heart allows lessons to take root, offering both comfort and practical direction. These works do not replace therapy or peer support, but they can strengthen recovery by reinforcing hope and providing proven strategies.
Encouragement for the Journey
If you feel overwhelmed, remember that healing happens step by step. One page, one story, one chapter at a time can guide you toward a healthier future. Recovery is not about erasing the past—it is about rewriting the present and creating a life that feels meaningful again.
Internal Resources for Your Recovery
Alongside gambling addiction books, you may also find these resources on High Stakes Healing helpful:
- Life After Gambling Addiction – Discover what rebuilding looks like beyond the bets.
- Creating a Gambling Recovery Plan – Structure your healing process with practical tools.
- Support for Gambling Addiction – Learn where to find professional and peer support networks.
- Gambling Relapse Support – Guidance for navigating setbacks without losing momentum.
- Talking About Gambling Addiction – How to share your story with honesty and compassion.
FAQs About Gambling Addiction Books
Can gambling addiction books replace therapy?
No. Books are powerful tools for learning and encouragement, but they are not a substitute for therapy or professional support. They are best used alongside counseling, recovery groups, or coaching.
What type of gambling addiction book should I start with?
If you want relatable stories, start with memoirs like Born to Lose or Gripped by Gambling. For practical tools, try The Gambling Addiction Client Workbook. For deeper insight, Addiction by Design or Beating the Odds may be most helpful.
Are there free resources like gambling addiction books?
Yes. Many libraries carry these titles, and some authors or organizations provide free PDFs or workbooks. Pairing free resources with professional support can be a good starting point.
How can reading help my recovery?
Reading builds awareness, reduces feelings of isolation, and provides strategies you can apply to daily life. Books can reinforce hope and remind you that recovery is possible.
