Ep. 88 - Acceptance: A Crucial Step In Overcoming Gambling Problems
“Acceptance often involves recognizing that we need to change something and taking responsibility for where we’re at and where we want to go. It’s a courageous act of letting go of control and embracing new possibilities.”
Gambling addiction is a challenging and deeply isolating struggle, but recovery is possible with the right mindset, support, and tools. One of the most transformative steps in overcoming this challenge is acceptance—acknowledging the reality of the situation and taking responsibility for change. In this episode of our podcast, Fold em: Help For Gambling Problems, we explore the power of acceptance.
You hear from Jen Gregg, a counsellor with Gambling Support BC, who shares profound insights into addressing gambling problems. Adam also joins us and shares his personal experience and wisdom from stopping gambling and rebuilding his life.
Listen to episode 88 and learn:
That’s it’s common to be struggling with gambling, and despite this, not wanting to let it go
That facing the facts about your gambling is a crucial step towards changing it
Practical tips for getting unstuck from gambling problems through acceptance
LISTEN to EPISODE 88
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I Don’t Want to Think About the Losses and Lies. Why Do I Need to Accept to Move Forward?
Gambling problems thrive in secrecy, denial, and avoidance. For this reason, acceptance is the first and most essential step when making changes. Here’s why it matters:
Acknowledging Reality
Acceptance means recognizing the facts of your situation—what gambling has cost you emotionally, financially, and relationally. It’s about facing the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, so you can begin to take steps toward change.Breaking the Cycle of Denial
Problem gambling often clouds judgment, leading individuals to minimize or rationalize their behavior. Acceptance disrupts this cycle by confronting harmful thought patterns and replacing them with honesty and accountability.Opening the Door to Change
Changing your gambling starts with letting go of the past and committing to a new path. As Jen explains, “Acceptance often involves recognizing that we need to change something and taking responsibility for where we’re at and where we want to go.” It’s a courageous act of letting go of control and embracing new possibilities.
Key Lessons on Acceptance
In our conversation with Jen and Adam in this episode of Fold em, several powerful insights emerged about the role of acceptance in recovery:
Acceptance as Connection
Jen highlighted that addiction thrives in isolation, while recovery grows through connection. Acceptance helps individuals reconnect—with themselves, their loved ones, and the truth of their situation—laying the foundation for healing and support.Honesty is Transformative
Adam shared how admitting his struggles, first to himself and then to others, was pivotal. “Speaking the truth out loud allowed the reality to sink in,” he said. This act of honesty broke the chains of secrecy and opened the door to support from his family and friends.Recovery Is About More Than Stopping Gambling
Both guests emphasized that recovery isn’t just about stopping or decreasing gambling—it’s about creating a fulfilling life that makes gambling unnecessary. Acceptance allows individuals to acknowledge not only the harm caused by gambling but also the changes needed in other areas, such as self-care, financial habits, and relationships.
How to Get Unstuck From Gambling Problems Through Acceptance
Acceptance is the cornerstone of addressing gambling problems. It offers clarity and courage needed to face the situation and move forward. By embracing the truth, breaking the cycle of denial, and building meaningful connections, individuals can begin to create a life beyond gambling.
Here are some practical tips for getting unstuck from gambling problems through acceptance:
Acknowledge the Facts
Take an honest inventory of your gambling behavior, including the emotional, financial, and relational consequences.
Avoid focusing on "what ifs" or wishing things were different. Start from where you are now.
Speak Your Truth
Admit the reality of your situation to yourself.
Share your struggles with someone you trust—a counselor, family member, or close friend. Speaking openly can bring relief and accountability.
Let Go of Control
Accept that you cannot gamble "socially" or manage it in the way you might hope. As Jen explained, true acceptance often means closing the door on gambling completely.
Focus on what you can control: your actions, responses, and recovery journey.
One Step at a Time
Getting started with changing your gambling doesn’t require understanding every “why” behind your addiction. As Jen noted, you don’t need to have all the answers to begin making changes.
Focus on small, actionable steps each day, such as attending a meeting, practicing self-care, or talking to a supportive friend.
Shift Your Perspective
Reframe acceptance as a sign of strength, not defeat. As Adam shared, admitting his struggles and seeking help brought relief, support, and clarity.
View acceptance as an opportunity to create a fulfilling, gamble-free life rather than a loss of freedom.
By embracing these strategies, you can begin to integrate acceptance into your recovery journey, setting the stage for healing, growth, and a brighter future.
What Support is Available to Help With Gambling Concerns?
To learn more about gambling concerns and how to access resources and support, go to the home page of this website or listen to other episodes of Fold em.
Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.
We welcome your feedback and ideas for topics for upcoming episodes. Reach out through the Contact Us page on this website or through email at Foldempodcast@gmail.com.
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