“Life Gets Bigger” on The Other Side of Problem Gambling Recovery
Published: May 31, 2022
“I always thought I could quit if I wanted to,” said Steve Kapela, in recovery from problem gambling and Manager of Problem Gambling Treatment and Prevention at the Zepf Center in Toledo, Ohio. “Until the day came when I wanted to, but I couldn’t quit gambling.”
Steve knows what it feels like to struggle with problem gambling – he’s experienced the anxiety, loneliness, and fear that often accompanies this common mental health disorder. But he is now 14 years into his recovery journey – and it all started when he reached out for help.
That’s why he’s encouraging Ohioans to “Make The Call” to the Problem Gambling Helpline in a recently launched testimonial video. The new video is part of the new Problem Gambling Helpline campaign, including a PSA video, a toolkit of educational resources, and more.
The campaign is helping to increase awareness of the Problem Gambling Helpline. In addition, the resources connect at-risk individuals and anyone concerned about someone they love to the support they may need before they reach a point of crisis.
Steve knows how much strength it takes to finally make the call – but for him, the decision was worth it.
“Gambling recovery has helped me put my life back together and to focus myself,” he said. “I think I’ve been able to reach my full potential and make up for some of the things that I did.”
Hear Steve’s story by watching this short video below:
For more resources and information on problem gambling, you can visit BeforeYouBet.org. There, you can take the quiz to see if you’re at-risk for problem gambling and find free resources for responsible gambling.
And remember that help is always available by calling the free Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-589-9966 or texting 4HOPE to 74174. If you are starting to have questions about your gambling habits or those of someone you care about, make the call today.