Skip to content

Behavioural Addictions

A collection of resources discussing Behavioural Addictions.

Gamblers Anonymous: From Gambling Addiction to Recovery

Brian Hatch threw away his dreams of being a comedian to spend his nights in casinos. After a 14 year battle with gambling and relapses, he decided to try another way- TALKING about his FEELINGS. In January of 2015 he started ALL IN The Addicted Gambler’s Podcast. Since that time the podcast has grown to over 350 episodes with interviews from the lived experience community, affected others, clinicians, academics, advocates, public health workers, and industry representatives. He speaks from the heart about his own recovery and hopes it helps.

Read MoreGamblers Anonymous: From Gambling Addiction to Recovery

Gambling on Addiction: How Governments Rely on Problem Gamblers

When it comes to gambling, Canadians are heavily invested. Last year alone, they spent roughly $13 billion on legal, government-operated gambling—more than what they collectively shelled out for movies, hockey games, and Tim Hortons combined. It’s no secret that provincial governments depend on gambling revenue. But what often gets overlooked is just how much of that money comes from problem gamblers. Experts estimate that up to 50% of gambling profits are fueled by those struggling with addiction. Although they publicly promote “responsible gambling,” this investigation by The Fifth Estate exposes how these programs are falling short—allowing addicted problem gamblers to keep coming back, while the government cashes in on their losses.

Read MoreGambling on Addiction: How Governments Rely on Problem Gamblers

Seniors & Addiction: Growing Old Gambling (2018)

With more disposable income and free time, experts warn that Baby Boomers face an increased risk of developing serious gambling problems. In the Midwest, easy access to both state and tribal casinos—as well as lottery games, keno, and sports betting—makes gambling more readily available. Many seniors engage in gambling as a social activity, but when it spirals out of control, recovering financially can be extremely difficult or even impossible.

NET’s original documentary explores the rise of problem gambling among Baby Boomers. It shares powerful personal accounts from individuals who have experienced emotional and financial turmoil, alongside insights and advice from top experts in crisis intervention and addiction treatment for older adults.

Read MoreSeniors & Addiction: Growing Old Gambling (2018)

Gambling Addiction Short Film: “Do It For Her”

Bilal is silently struggling with the pressures of university, family life, and finances. As he searches for an escape, the devastating effects of a hidden addiction begin to consume every part of his life. Gambling has taken control, threatening everything he holds dear. Now, Bilal faces a critical decision: can he take the first step toward recovery, or will he lose everything and everyone he loves in the process?

Read MoreGambling Addiction Short Film: “Do It For Her”

Pieces of a Dream: A Story of Gambling

When Phillip Wong died by suicide, his family believed that staying silent might ease their pain. But his sister, filmmaker Michelle Wong, felt compelled to understand what had led him to end his life at just 36 years old. Through intimate conversations with those who knew Phillip best and her own honest reflections, Michelle embarks on a deeply personal journey. As she gently unravels layers of silence, she uncovers Phillip’s hidden struggle with gambling disorder and his descent into isolation, desperation, and depression.

Read MorePieces of a Dream: A Story of Gambling

The Psychology and Neuroscience of Gambling Disorder

In this presentation, Dr. Luke Clark, Director of the Centre for Gambling Research at UBC, takes a closer look at the modern conceptualization of Gambling Disorder as a behavioural addiction. After a quick overview of how it’s diagnosed and how common it is, he explains the psychology and neuroscience of gambling disorder - how it can change the way people think and how these changes are connected to brain chemistry and the brain’s reward system.

Read MoreThe Psychology and Neuroscience of Gambling Disorder

Understanding Joy: The Devastation of a Gambling Addiction

Understanding Joy takes a deep look into the life of Joy, a 57-year-old woman whose gambling addiction led her to embezzle $700,000 from two employers. Now facing sentencing, Joy wrestles with the weight of her actions and tries to help her children — and herself — understand the grip of her gambling addiction.

Read MoreUnderstanding Joy: The Devastation of a Gambling Addiction

Trapped in a Gambling Addiction That Almost Destroyed His Life

After struggling with gambling addiction, Ike Dweck slowly turned his life around. He has gone on to help others in need. He created the SAFE Foundation, an outpatient treatment program located in Brooklyn, New York. They serve as a reliable haven for those experiencing difficulties with cigarettes, vaping, prescription drug addiction, alcoholism, and compulsive gambling. In this video with That’s an Issue Podcast, he shares his inspiring journey from being a compulsive gambler to saving the lives of others struggling with addiction.

Read MoreTrapped in a Gambling Addiction That Almost Destroyed His Life