Are there any treatment programs for people who are so dependent on gambling?

I have a friend whose father is so addicted to gambling. Even though their family needs the money for more important things, her father still uses it for gambling. I just want to know whether people like him can still change and steer away from gambling. It's really affecting my friend as well as other members of their family, and I'd just like to suggest that they get her dad treated if there are indeed treatment programs for this.

Yes, there are indeed treatment programs available for gamblers. Just like alcoholism, gambling addiction is considered as an illness. Though there is no cure and there will always be the possibility of relapse, it can be treated. You can probably suggest to your friend that they contact their local health services administration and ask about treatment centers.

Gamblers Anonymous

1-800-BETS-OFF

Yes there is treatment for any kind of addiction as the others have mentioned. On top of these suggestions there is private counseling which can help people with addictions.
Addiction as an illness is a very popular idea these days but I don't buy it. This is behavior which the person can control if he chooses to do so. The sooner he gets over the idea that "The Devil (illness) made me do it." the better off he will be.
These days it's very popular to put the blame for personal bad behavior on something or someone else but this guy, like all other addicts, is 100% responsible for what he does and the consequences of his actions both to himself and the people around him.