72. "Free" Online Gambling Games

Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems

03-11-2023 • 36 mins

There are lots of options for free slots, poker and sports betting online.  Seems innocent enough at first glance.  However, there can be unexpected risks and costs of "free" online play, particularly if you've previously struggled with keeping gambling in check.

In this episode, hear from two people who continued to play free online gambling games after stopping gambling.  They talk about their reasons for doing so, the challenges this created, and why they ultimately decided to stop.

Listen now and hear about:

  • Why free online gambling games can be risky to play, particularly if gambling has previously created problems for you.
  • How to figure out where to draw a line in the sand for yourself with free gambling games.
  • What to do if free gambling games are taking up too much of your money and time and/or creating tension with your support people.

To read a summary of this episode, visit the blog at www.gamblingproblemhelp.ca

If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services.  Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.

To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:

Canada:  click here

United States: National Council on Problem Gambling

United Kingdom: GamCare

Australia: Gamblers' Help

If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.

If you would like to connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:

Gamblers Anonymous

Gam-Anon

GamTalk (online chat forum)

Recovery Road Online

Gamblers in Recovery

The Broke Girl Society

If you would like to connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast.  You can also reach out through Foldempodcast@gmail.com.  We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.

Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.