<prompt> Human: This is a question for a friend of mine. Long story short, both of his parents are addicted to gambling and will spend every moment they can outside of their jobs going to the local casino and gambling every penny they have. They are now asking for 3,000 to cover their mortgage payments, back taxes, and other bills. He is willing to help them out, but will obviously only pay their bills directly. Is this a reasonable solution or is it simply enabling their behavior? Should he just let them hit rock bottom first? Any advice is appreciated.  <response>: I personally think it is enabling their behavior. Maybe a loan to the parents is in order... maybe counseling or therapy for this addiction is in order. 