When spouses and family members learn about a loved one's gambling problem, money issues come into the open. Usually this involves debt and it feels overwhelming and emotional. Typically, people don't know what to do. There is often a reflex to step in and pay things off quickly.

In this episode of Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems, we offer guidance for spouses, family members and the person who has gambled. I'm joined by Margaret Johnson, who has thirty years experience helping people overcome debt. She is the President of Solutions Credit Counselling Service, Inc.

Listen in and hear about:

• First steps spouses and family can take after finding out about gambling debt
• How to move forward, whether you intend to stay in the relationship or separate
• How to get a clear picture of the financial situation, regain control of household finances and protect your financial security
• What to consider if you are thinking of using family finances to pay off gambling debt

If you would like to read a summary of Margaret's key recommendations from this episode and learn more about addressing gambling debt, read the blog for this episode at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca.

If you would like to connect with Margaret Johnson, reach out to her at Solutions Credit Counselling Service, Inc.

If you live in Canada and would like to access help with gambling debt:

• Find a credit counselling service near you in Canada. Click here.
• Find a Licensed Insolvency Trustees near you in Canada. Click here.
• Find free legal services near you in Canada. Click here.

If you live outside of Canada, search online for "credit counselling services," licensed solvency trustee," and "pro bono legal services" in your region.

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 [email protected]. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.

Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.