I think it is due to the vicious cycle of loss-chasing the loss-worse loss and the denial of the fact that they are having a problem. Indeed accepting the fact that one has a gambling addiction is embarrassing to their therapist and family. This will not improve for those who mindset has the risk taking attitude, but some people understand their problem quickly and seek help quickly too and such people though rare often save themselves from catastrophic effects.

Often it is the family who have to bear the burden, so possible addicted gamblers should keep that in mind and how much of a shock that would be for them.