Dunover, it's naive and over-simplified to think that problem gambling is only a problem because of financial losses. It can steal your time, cause people to ignore other responsibilities, stress family relations, etc. Most of us enjoy our respites from reality relaxing playing some slots, but that desire for relaxation can evolve into a compulsion, just like that of the heroin user or alcoholic that drinks themselves into a stupor.
I think the OP was well aware there was a possibility he would not be paid if he won. That itself was a gamble. The NEED for the risk of ruin can be a big component for some people.
I have a real life friend that recently self-excluded from OLG casinos for a period of five years (their maximum, they don't offer lifetime). But when she self-excluded, she was told she could request in writing that it be lifted after six months. Just to put the LGA's policy in perspective.
Funex, it's a good suggestion to visit your doctor. Some of the same medications used to treat OCD can be a useful tool in battling your illness. I still wish you all the best.
I'd like to suggest that just the way a casino will comp a player after a bad session, that Butler's Bingo make a donation to a gambling treatment program.
I would like to see all accredited casinos require a cooling off period to re-open self-excluded accounts, and that requests need to be reviewed by someone other than front-line CSRs.