65. Taking Charge of Tough Conversations About Gambling

Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems

When you have concerns about someone's gambling, it's not easy to talk about. It's often challenging to prevent these conversations from going off the rails.

In this episode, we offer guidance for these tricky conversations. Spouses, family members and friends will hear strategies to use when first talking about gambling or if you suspect there has been a relapse. If you are someone who gambles, there is lots in this episode you'll find helpful too.

I'm joined by Saul Malek who is four-years away from his last bet. From the perspective of someone who gambled, he shares ideas for parents and spouses on how to reach out and talk about gambling problems. You also hear from Neena Keram who is a counsellor specializing in working with couples when addiction shows up in a relationship.

Listen in and hear about:

• How to talk to a loved one about their gambling, even when they don't think it is a problem OR want to do anything about it
• How to approach someone when you suspect they have relapsed
• How to encourage someone to get help, but not take over with managing the problem and "fixing" things
• How family members and spouses can cope when feeling overwhelmed and stressed by gambling problems

To read a summary of the tips and strategies covered in this episode, read the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.

To reach out to Saul Malek, go to his website at www.saulmalek.com. If you live in British Columbia and would like to connect with Neena Keram's services through Gambling Support BC, visit www.najtherapies.com

If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.

To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:

Canada: click here

United States: National Council on Problem Gambling

United Kingdom: GamCare

Australia: Gamblers' Help

If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.

If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through [e-mail]. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.

Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.