Process Addiction
Gambling Addiction
When betting has stopped feeling like a choice.
Understanding gambling addiction
Gambling addiction, or gambling disorder, is a recognized behavioural addiction in which the urge to gamble persists despite mounting harm to finances, relationships, and wellbeing. It activates the same reward pathways as substance use, which is why willpower alone rarely resolves it.
Signs to look for
- Chasing losses with bigger or more frequent bets
- Lying to hide the extent of gambling
- Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
- Restlessness or irritability when trying to cut back
- Gambling to escape stress, guilt, or low mood
How we help
- Culturally sensitive one-on-one counselling
- Cognitive-behavioural work on urges and triggers
- Financial harm-reduction and boundary planning
- Family and relationship repair
- Connection to Gamblers Anonymous and BC responsible-gambling supports
We're here for you
You don't have to carry this alone
Whatever you're facing, a confidential, compassionate conversation is one call away. There's no judgement here, only support.