Helping people with their problems

[Roman]

How do you guys help people with their problems? I have a couple of friends with gambling/addiction (such as smoking) problems, and have always sucked at helping them. I end up just telling them how stupid they are very condescendingly, and explain to them why they are stupid. However, it usually just makes them feel bad, and they turn back to whatever problems they had. What is the best way to help someone in need? I know this question is really vague, but does anyone have any thoughts or experiances in their lives they would like to share?