I know of someone who is so addicted in gambling.who spend his time and all his money in gambling.
Which he is finding difficult to stop or control, irrespective of the consequences that surrounds it, such as relationship issues,lack of finance and emotional breakdown,many people go through so many risks just to be able to fund that lifestyle and majority of them are using gambling as there day to day activities (they make it their job) this set of people or person can loss friends, family and relationship.
Because all there focuses are on gambling, when you come across this kind of people. "all you need is to counsel them" because it's beneficial
Wise counsel and being there for a friend but the truth is that gambling isn't the only issue, its what's at the surface. Your friend is using gambling as an outlet to avoid some responsibility or personal issue im guessing that is much more deeply rooted than what it appears. I would urge you to press him on what those things are. Sometimes people just dont know they're doing something wrong until you point it out for them. Make sure you tell him out of lovd as a friend which im sure you have