GAMBLING STORIES
SHARE YOUR STORY
Gambling addiction and the impacts it has on loved ones is often a well-kept secret. The stigma is real and significant, often preventing someone from seeking the help they need. By offering your story, whether you’ve been directly or indirectly impacted by gambling addiction, others can gain a better understanding of this addiction.
The power of sharing stories is transformative. Each story is unique, yet shares common threads that enables all of us to better understand this addiction and appreciate another person’s vulnerability.
Need some help getting started?
Here are a few questions to prompt your thoughts. Feel free to express yourself in prose, poetry, song, video or a visual piece.
PROMPTS FOR A GAMBLER
- What led you to seek recovery?
- What support did you receive (or not) from family, friends, work?
- What have been the significant barriers/challenges you faced in your recovery?
- How has recovery changed your life?
- What is your hope for the future?
PROMPTS FOR A CONCERNED OTHER
- When you realized your loved one had a gambling addiction, did they confront you or did you find out accidentally?
- How have you navigated the challenges in your relationship with the gambler as each seeks recovery?
- Were you able to be open about the situation with other family members, friends?
- What measures did you take to protect your assets?
- What would you say to someone facing a similar situation?
- What is your hope for the future?
Problem gambling is a serious but often hidden issue that affects individuals, families and communities across Minnesota. This message shares why help matters and where to find it.
In Their Own Words – Maude’s Story
For Maude, the shame accompanying a gambling addiction was incomparable. Read about her recovery.
In Their Own Words – Crystal’s Story
Read Crystal’s powerful story of discovering her son’s hidden gambling problem and the steps her family took to find help, hope, and a path forward. READ MORE
In Their Own Words – Randall’s Story
Randall shares his firsthand journey through gambling addiction, incarceration, and recovery, and how lived experience pushed him to create in-person support for others. His story shows both the devastation gambling can cause and the hope found through accountability, connection, and recovery. READ MORE
Gambling addiction recovery podcasts
The Problem Gambling Podcast
A podcast exploring issues surrounding problem gambling and gambling related harm. LISTEN NOW
Fall In Podcast
Conversations with Dave Yeager cover the latest military gambling and recovery resources. LISTEN NOW
All In: The Addicted Gambler’s Podcast
This podcast is co-hosted by Brian and Jeff, both compulsive gamblers who made their last bets in 2014 and 2015. LISTEN NOW
Hello, My Name is Craig
A weekly candid conversation about gambling addiction. Listen in on Spotify
The Broke Girl Society
Listen to Jessica H. share her recovery story from problem gambling. LISTEN NOW
Voices…the Podcast
“Voices…the Podcast” (Brian Ward / Voices of Problem Gambling Recovery). LISTEN NOW
MNAPG has had the privilege of speaking with and sharing numerous recovery stories over the years. We know that visitors to our site spend time reflecting on these stories. We hope you will find them helpful. Each story provides a unique look into the life of someone with a gambling addiction. Each willingly shared their story in the hope it would help others understand that recovery, though not easy, is possible and so worth the journey.
