Community Repercussions and Social Isolation. People who are ashamed or feel guilty about their gambling habits may distance themselves from friends and family. A vicious cycle that sall pattitrengthens the addiction can be created by this isolation, which can intensify feelings of hopelessness and loneliness. Gambling addiction can lead to higher crime rates and a burden on social services that assist those who are addicted, which hurts the larger community as well. One of the most important steps to recovery from gambling addiction is getting help.