Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Albertans dealing with gambling addiction will have access to expanded treatment and recovery services following a new provincial funding commitment aimed at improving access to specialized care.
The Alberta government announced approximately $2.4 million in funding for Brick House Recovery Centre, which will use the investment to expand outpatient and online services for people experiencing gambling-related problems.
Gambling addiction can affect far more than a person’s finances. It can contribute to difficulties involving mental health, family relationships, employment and overall stability. The province says the expanded services are intended to provide free, recovery-focused assistance to both individuals and families dealing with the consequences of problem gambling.
“Gambling can have devastating consequences for individuals and families,” said Rick Wilson, Alberta’s Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, noting that the province wants people to have access to support focused on rebuilding stability and achieving lasting recovery.
Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, also urged Albertans to think carefully about the risks associated with gambling. He said those who are already struggling should have access to meaningful assistance when they seek help.
The funding follows an open competition launched earlier this year by the Alberta government to identify organizations capable of delivering coordinated gambling treatment and recovery programs through outpatient and online services.
Brick House Recovery Centre is the first organization selected for funding under that process. The government says further organizations are expected to be announced later in the fall.
Treatment available in Calgary, Edmonton and online
The program being supported through the funding is designed around individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Participants will receive four weeks of outpatient treatment, followed by as many as eight weeks of personalized aftercare.
In-person services will be offered in Edmonton and Calgary, while virtual treatment will be available to Albertans across the province. The online option is intended to make treatment more accessible to people who may live outside major urban centres or face barriers to attending appointments in person.
Brick House Recovery Centre, an Alberta-based provider of addiction and mental-health services, says its program will combine evidence-based treatment with ongoing recovery support.
Dr. Lovneet Hayer, chief medical officer and co-founder of Brick House Recovery Centre, said the organization wants the program to give affected individuals and families practical assistance while helping them work toward longer-term recovery.
The provincial government described the initiative as part of its broader Alberta Recovery Model, which includes addressing behavioural addictions such as gambling alongside substance-use concerns.
Officials say the latest investment is intended to strengthen immediate access to treatment while also contributing to a more connected network of gambling addiction services across Alberta.
