Jeremy Edge: Dad, it's Paige...we really need to talk about how the internet hooks us on gambling

In this episode, addiction counselor Jeremy joins us to discuss the distinction between recreational gambling and addiction. Jeremy shares stories from his clients and offers insights into identifying gambling addiction behaviors and setting boundaries. He explores software solutions for managing gambling website usage and discusses why people gamble, from boredom to financial need. We delve into the rapid ascent of online gambling websites and the increase and gambling behaviors generally.Jeremy is a licensed professional counselor with over seven years of experience working with adults, teens, and children in various settings, including ADAPT of Missouri, Every Child’s Hope, and in private practice. After personally experiencing the negative effects of Gaming Disorder, Jeremy devoted his work to helping those recover from problematic and disordered screen use. He is passionate about helping teenagers and adults obtain a more balanced relationship with screens. He does not advocate total abstention but instead provides counseling on responsible screen use. He helps strengthen family relationships and gives parents insights to address unhealthy screen use. He gives people practical tools to help with their specific need of escaping problematic screen use. Jeremy provides a safe space for those struggling with problematic screen use to find ways to meet their goals. Outside of problematic screen use, Jeremy works well with anyone struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and stress. If you want to improve your mental health, call Jeremy.Screen use is like candy. Candy is delicious, and it provides a lot of energy. But if it’s our only food source, we will have problems. It’s the same with video games." - Jeremy Edge"We can't completely get rid of technology use, but how we're able to modify it or be able to interact with it healthily is impactful." - Jeremy Edge "Any kiddo can open up a loot box, but loot boxes are gambling." - Jeremy Edge This week on Disarming Data:How to identify the line between recreational gambling and addictionSoftware you can use to manage your use of gambling websitesWhy people gamble — from boredom to financial needHow to make changes in your life that replace the feeling you get from gamblingWhy it can be helpful to join a support group when recovering from addictionHow loot boxes in video games are exposing children in the U.S to the adrenaline rush of gamblingHow online gambling websites work to attract people to spend time on the platformsHow Jeremy helps teens and families impacted by online gaming addictionRed flags that gaming is a problemWhether Jeremy believes that the Metaverse will be the future of gamingResources: Counter Strike video gameConnect with Jeremy Edge:Escapingthe.comJeremy Edge on LinkedInConnect with Disarming Data:David Biderman on LinkedIn