Addiction Services

Gambling

Financial Counselling

Many people with gambling problems wait until it's too late to call for financial counselling. They try to solve the problem themselves by selling assets, using up savings, applying for more credit, or involving their families.

They are embarrassed about the situation they are in and afraid that they will have to face bankruptcy.

But the truth is that through financial counselling there are many more options available. And the sooner you call, the better your chances of saving some of your assets.

Financial counselling is available free of charge across Nova Scotia through Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. You can contact a counselor at 1-800-670-4357 or by going to www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/consumer/debtor. The service is confidential. Some programs that may be recommended are fee-based.

Perhaps best of all, if you are already experiencing the stress of having creditors calling you, by entering into a financial program, they will have to stop.

Financial counselling is also strongly recommended if you are the spouse or partner of a person with a gambling problem who is not ready to seek help. A financial counselor can help you protect yourself by red-flagging or freezing joint accounts and limiting your exposure to more losses.