A Swedish Mutual Support Society of Problem Gamblers

Mutual support societies for problem gamblers have existed in Sweden for 20 years. They have helped more people with gambling
problems than any other institution inside or outside the Swedish health care system. This paper outlines the background of
these societies and describes the meetings of one of them. Data come from interviews with members of a local society and participation
in mutual support meetings. It is argued that these mutual support societies provide help in a variety of ways and in all
phases of recovery from gambling problems. In particular, they help people form personal narratives about the origin, progression,
and resolution of their problems, narratives that give insight and guide recovery. These mutual support societies are valuable
complements and alternatives to professional treatment.