In this episode, you hear from someone whose career has focused on better understanding gambling problems.  Dr. Marc Potenza is a psychiatrist and professor at Yale University and Director of the Centre of Excellence in Gambling Research.  

Since he's very familiar with the research on gambling addiction, I asked him questions that I commonly hear in the counselling room and from listeners.  

Listen in and hear about:

• Why is it that some people become compulsive gamblers and others don't?
• What's happening in the brain when gambling gets out of control?
• Are there medications that can help with cravings?
• Does treatment work?

We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, so if you would like to read a summary, visit the blog at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca.

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 online groups and supports, here's some options:

Gamblers Anonymous

Gam-Anon

GamTalk (online chat forum)

Recovery Road Online

Gamblers in Recovery

The Broke Girl Society

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.