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Volume 24, Issue 4 | December 2004–January 2005
Problem Gambling: Creating a Safe SpaceOscar Wilde famously said, "I can resist anything except temptation." It's a statement that is both hilarious and ruefully descriptive of the human condition, and especially relevant to those of us who work in the addictions field. In a sense, all of addictions work amounts to a very sophisticated way of helping people to resist the temptation of behaviour that is momentarily satisfying but ultimately harmful. In early recovery from dependence, the easiest way to resist temptation is simply to remove it. If we can help people to create a safe space that reduces their opportunities to use substances or to gamble, we can help them to focus on creating positive habits, to give them something enjoyable to look forward to as they let go of something that once was their primary source of joy. This issue of Developments focuses on two ways of creating that safe space for problem gamblers: voluntary self-exclusion and residential treatment. In the first, the gambler invites the purveyors of games of chance to participate in the gambler's recovery, to make their premises less accessible. In the second, gamblers remove themselves from the environment in which they learned their noxious habit, and are actively encouraged to develop new and healthy ways of thinking and behaving. This issue includes a report of the recent opening of an AADAC residential treatment program and a listing of the residential programs available at addictions agencies funded by AADAC. |
A Fresh Look at Voluntary Self-Exclusion"A big eye-opener," is how Wendy Fothergill now describes the Casino and Racing Entertainment Centre Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (VSE). As co-ordinator of AADAC's problem gambling strategy, she sees the program as more than a harm-reduction tool for problem gamblers. She also sees it as a unique opportunity to provide education and counselling to problem gamblers. She hasn't always been so optimistic, however.
AADAC Opens Residential Treatment Program for Problem GamblersThe majority of Albertans, 18 years and older, gamble responsibly as a social activity and do not develop problems. However, about five per cent of adult Albertans experience moderate to severe problems as a result of their gambling. To assist Albertans who develop serious gambling problems, the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission has opened a residential treatment program for problem gamblers at the Northern Addictions Centre (NAC) in Grande Prairie.
Residential Problem Gambling Treatment Programs in AADAC Funded AgenciesIn addition to AADAC's residential treatment centres, a number of AADAC Funded Agencies provide Albertans with residential treatment programs for problem gambling. These agencies have been key partners in developing and refining residential problem gambling treatment programs, and they all have something unique to offer their clients.
The Back PageWelcome to The Back Page of Developments. This is where you can read about conferences, learning opportunities, special events, and recommended AADAC resources (always good and sometimes extraordinary value). If you want to advertise on The Back Page, contact the editor of Developments for rates and deadlines.
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