Richard is dealing with a major gambling problem - not his own, but his former wife's. She has a serious addiction to poker machines.

Even though the couple separated a number of years ago, Richard has been bailing her out of her debts over and over again all that time - not so much for her sake, but more for the sake of their three kids, who still live with their mum. Richard continues to pay not only the debts but most of the family's living expenses - because mum gambles away much of her money. Sometimes he feels like a sucker for punishment but the sacrifice has enabled him to stay close to his children and be sure that they're ok.

But it's starting to really trouble him. He's wondering if it's time to draw the line, put the foot down and bring an end to the destructive cycle. What can Richard do?

Let's give him some second opinions.

DISCUSSION POINTS

• Is it time for the kids to move in with their dad, who will be a more responsible carer for them?
 
• Should he pressure his wife, withdraw the support, and let her feel the cold?

• The kids are getting older and will soon be able to get jobs and earn their own money. He's worried their money might be drawn into their mum's problem too.

• On the other hand he feels terrible about the idea of taking them from their mum because despite her gambling issue, she is actually a good mum in many ways.
 
• How many times do you keep bailing out a problem gambler, even if you're doing it to protect other people you love?

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