Lying, manipulation, dissembling, and complete deflection of criticism typify this period. Externalization of blame and complete lack or accountability are hallmarks of this phase. Acute anger at others who will not participate in the lie of his or her existence is typical. Financial affairs are disastrous. Bills are unpaid, and family is knowledgeable, suffering, and powerless.
Phones go unanswered.
The gambler wants it to end and contemplate suicide, which is a more frequent consequence than people imagine. Death is viewed as the only exit strategy. Rock bottom is generally the only point of possible remedial action. Only after the family forsakes the gambler, they have lost their job, they are being sued, and completely lacking in resources, does an attempt at remediation occur. Relapses from initial recovery programs is frequent, as he convinces himself and others that he has conquered his problem, but is merely recreating the downward spiral once again but with a transparent shield of lying and deceit.