Paula's Story

In this episode, Paula shares her personal journey with gambling harm through social casinos and then, later on, online gambling. Paula details how it began during her pregnancy and the emotional struggles that accompanied it. She discusses the impact of societal stigma on motherhood and the challenges of finding community support. Paula emphasizes the importance of building a better relationship with money and the role of tough love in recovery. Throughout her story, she highlights the significance of being present for her family and offers hope to others facing similar struggles.

**Important note: If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self-harm, please seek the help of trained professionals. We speak only from our own experiences. This podcast is meant to encourage and support your recovery journey, not replace professional care.

PODCAST SPONSORS:

The Better Institute (PA Residents) Where people go to get better. ⁠https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/⁠

GamFin Financial counseling with professionals who understand the impact gambling can have on your financial health and goals. (U.S. residents only) ⁠https://www.gamfin.org/⁠

Evive An app designed to help you better understand your relationship with gambling and support your recovery journey. ⁠GetEvive.com⁠

Nicasa Behavioral Health Services (Illinois Residents) Since 2002, Nicasa has been helping individuals in Illinois address gambling behaviors through awareness, outreach, and treatment services. Learn more at ⁠N-I-C-A-S-A.org⁠

• Adult Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/adult-gambling-treatment/⁠

• Youth Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/youth-gambling-treatment/⁠

Birches Health Find a certified gambling therapist through telehealth and attend sessions from the comfort of your home. ⁠https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsociety⁠

Resources:

BGS Resource Book ⁠https://bgs-media.com/resources/⁠

National Council on Problem Gambling ⁠https://www.ncpgambling.org/⁠

800-GAMBLER ⁠https://800gambler.org/⁠

Gamblers Anonymous ⁠https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/⁠

24/7 Meetings Worldwide ⁠https://gamblersinrecovery.com/⁠

Recovery Road Online Meetings ⁠https://recoveryroadonline.com/⁠

UK ⁠https://gordonmoody.org.uk/⁠ ⁠https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginnings⁠

Australia ⁠https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/⁠

Canada ⁠https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling⁠

Christina Cook ⁠https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/⁠ ⁠christina@thebrokegirlsociety.com⁠

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