A question that bothers me concerning this issue is;
1. Do gambling addicts ever take a second thought on what the consequences of their actions can be not just to them but on those close to them?
Uhm, this question will be very difficult for us to answer correctly. because it all depends on the individual. in short, relatively depending on the personality of a gambler. there are many cases, where addict gamblers will think many times before carrying out their actions and consider the consequences of what they do. especially, if it involves family or close people. not infrequently, there are many cases that occur as you describe in this thread. Usually, they will look for scapegoats to blame for their actions even in very diverse cases.
2. Do they in reality genuinely feel any remorse about how those affected by their actions might be feeling?
usually, after they have had a betting session then lose the money they have gambled. a feeling of regret arises, not infrequently they even run away from reality to avoid their responsibilities. for example, there is in what you tell in this thread. some who have a mental that is not strong, they are looking for a quick way to end everything, you know what I mean.
3. Or, are they a dispassionate victim of their own uncontrollable addictive gambling lifestyle?
Once again, we cannot measure and generalize for each case to gambling addicts. there are many factors that are the cause, there are many factors to be considered and environmental factors also have a big contribution. So, we can't just see it from the point of view. for sure, people like this will really need help to reduce their addiction. as far as my experience goes, it is ourselves who basically have to be responsible for ourselves.