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Being a 40-year-old single woman permanently disabled with no children and an abundance of spare time, the exhilaration of the casino was the solution to my boredom and depression. Throughout my life I had been familiar with various types of social gambling such as cards, lotteries and horses, but didn't develop an obsession until I became very lucky at slots. Unfortunately that "good" luck led to bad habits and losses, not just financial. I honestly believed I could quit on my own, but the time came when I realized I was wrong. This was difficult to admit. |
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I contacted Problem Gambling Services and arranged my first appointment, hard in one way, but hopeful in another. Through one-on-one counseling, a 12 week treatment group and a 12-week aftercare group program, I learned not only why I gambled compulsively, but also how to use numerous methods to improve the general quality of my life. The boost in confidence has been enormous, and now I care enough about myself to do everything I can to ensure I always remain in this upright position. Since my recovery began about 2 ½ years ago, I am proud to say I have not returned to the Casino, or anywhere there are slot machines. I replaced gambling with physical fitness, a volunteer position I adore and an active social life, including someone very special. |
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I'm doing things
I would never have considered in the past and look at my negatives
as a positive. All of this has been the result of the care and help
that was available that I desperately needed. I'm at the happiest
and most successful point of my life. Thank God and the wonderful
people at Problem Gaming Services. |
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SIMILAR STORIES - DIFFERENT FACES Angela and Billie's stories are quite typical of female problem gamblers. Feelings of depression, boredom, loneliness or the absence of purpose in one's life coupled with a big win or extended winning period can set the hook for a gambling addiction. Female gamblers, for the most part will choose to engage in types of gambling that provide a one on one gambling experience (i.e. lottery, bingo, nevada tickets, slots) rather than a competitive situation such as blackjack or poker. Female problem gamblers are usually looking to escape negative feelings or situations and therefore, excessive gambling can become a coping strategy. It becomes the best thing they know how to do given the circumstances they are faced with. Women with a gambling addiction will go to great lengths to hide their behaviour. Prior to or following gambling they can appear depressed, despondent or exhibit severe mood swings. While gambling they appear unassuming, focused and in control. As their gambling progresses and financial losses mount, the gambler becomes desperate and chases losses in an attempt to get even. In this phase, the downward spiral can be devastating. Seeking immediate intervention with knowledgeable counsellors is the way out of the deep dark hole. |
FACT Ontario government funding allocation for problem gambling
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