Chris Gilham's Road to Recovery: From Gambling Addiction to Community Advocate
The thing that didn't work was trying to do it on my own. But at the time I did self-exclude and I self-excluded from land-based casinos in, so I was never able to go back into them.
Ever wondered how someone can turn a gambling addiction into a mission to help others? Chris Gilham, CFO and Commercial Director of TalkGEN C.I.C., shares his compelling story with Lee Davy on the '1000 Days Sober Podcast'. Chris opens up about his own struggles with gambling, which began in his teenage years and spiraled out of control. His journey to recovery wasn’t easy, but it was transformative.
He talks about the critical step of self-exclusion from casinos, a strategy that played a huge role in preventing relapse. Chris emphasizes the power of community support and therapy in overcoming addiction. He explains how having a network of understanding people can make all the difference. He also delves into the impact of addiction on mental health, personal relationships, and finances. One of the most striking points he makes is about the danger of seeking external validation through addictive behaviors.
Through his work with TalkGEN C.I.C. and co-hosting the 'All Bets Are Off' recovery podcast, Chris uses his lived experience to guide prevention strategies for gambling harm. His story is not just about personal recovery but also about giving back and helping others navigate their own journeys. If you or someone you know is dealing with gambling addiction, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice.
Tune in to hear Chris’s inspiring journey and learn how community and self-reflection can pave the way to a healthier, addiction-free life.