60. Coming Out of the Shadows: Connections Between Gambling, Mental Health and Substance Addiction

It's not easy to talk openly about gambling issues.  Nor is it easy to talk about living with mental health issues.  In this episode, hear an open, thoughtful and inspiring conversation about one man's experiences with Bipolar Disorder and how this contributed to drinking, gambling and gaming getting out of hand for him.  Hear how he is now free of gambling and living well.  He teaches us about how to watch out for switching addictions.  Listen and learn about: The connections between mental health issues, gambling and substance addiction How to notice if you're switching addictions How to find healthy replacements for gambling Strategies to live well and stay in balance If you would like to learn more about what the research says about the connections between mental health issues, gambling and substance addiction and strategies for preventing switching addictions, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca. If you would like to access help for mental health issues: resources in Canada resources in the United States  resources in Great Britain If you live outside of these areas, do an online search for mental health help in your country. If you live in British Columbia and would like to access our free, confidential counselling and outreach services for gambling concerns, 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 [email protected].  We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes. Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.