Maureen Greeley: From Zoos to Gambling Recovery
Episode Overview
Increased accessibility to gambling through online platforms is leading to more addiction cases. Early prevention and awareness are crucial in mitigating the impacts of problem gambling. Financial distress is a significant issue in gambling addiction, often leading to severe consequences. Culturally relevant and holistic approaches can enhance recovery efforts. Support systems should include financial counselling and comprehensive care.
You can have such extreme financial hardship. You may have to be facing telling your family that you're going to lose your home, that you lost your job, that the education fund for your children is no longer there.
Ever wondered how diverse experiences shape a leader in addiction recovery? This episode of the SMART Recovery® Podcast introduces you to Maureen Greeley, the executive director of the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling (ECPG). Maureen’s eclectic background, from working at the San Diego Zoo to managing a wolf sanctuary, has uniquely equipped her to lead and advocate for those affected by problem gambling.
Her journey is a testament to how varied life experiences can deepen one's empathy and effectiveness in helping others. Under her leadership, the ECPG launched the Four Directions Conference, focusing on culturally relevant and holistic approaches to addiction recovery. In this episode, Maureen discusses the rapid growth of gambling issues due to increased accessibility through online platforms and sports betting. She highlights the importance of early prevention and awareness to mitigate the impacts on individuals and families.
Maureen also shares her personal connection to addiction, having grown up in a family affected by it, and how this has fueled her passion for advocacy. The conversation covers the significant differences between gambling addiction and other forms of addiction, particularly its high association with financial distress and suicide. Maureen emphasises the need for comprehensive support systems that include financial counselling and culturally sensitive treatment modalities.
This episode is a must-listen if you're interested in understanding the complexities of gambling addiction and the innovative ways communities are coming together to address it. Tune in to hear how Maureen’s unique journey has shaped her approach to making a difference in the world of addiction recovery.