Nunavut’s gambling epidemic damages children

There is an epidemic going on within Nunavut that is harming the small children. The children themselves are unable to do anything about it.

However, the municipal governments, social workers and mental health workers certainly can do something about it if they really want to.

This is one definition I can find that seems to fit this sickness: “Addiction is an uncontrollable compulsion to repeat a behavior regardless of its negative consequences.”

This destructive behavior is gambling; whether it’s with cards or board games. Some mothers are out every single night playing cards, some are extremely aggressive in defending their habit and some children are completely neglected.

Just because you feed or clothe your child does not mean they’re looked after. They need their mothers to stimulate their minds, be taught about the land, the past, the history and most of all they would really like it if you involve yourself in their present. You leave it up to the teachers to teach your children everything, such as reading, doing math, physical education and you have to be paid something to speak in their schools.

Sometimes mothers will have the attitude of “children from the South are so much smarter than our children because they have the tools to be taught everything.” Guess what? You yourself have the tools also; you’re just playing the victim because of your addiction.

Municipal governments can tax the gambling houses and the social workers and the mental health workers can set up group self-help meetings for those who wish to seek help to stop their addictions. Don’t wait to be asked to do it, volunteer to start a self-help group.

I am sure the severe addicts can be sent down south for professional help, and send only the ones who are really ready for help so they don’t waste airfare by wanting to return right away. Perhaps the long-term consequences of you asking for help right now will result in less suicide within Nunavut.

If you want to quit gambling, don’t decide within yourself that you are going to do it by yourself — ask for help because you might not succeed on your own. Any gambling places should be taxed or licensed, whether it’s in the communities or in the boarding homes in the South.

I wish to remain anonymous because I have too many relatives who are gamblers and I can’t seem to connect to them like I used to before their gambling habit got too far out of hand. Besides Social Services being able to help you, there are also the places of worship where you will find solace when you feel helpless.

(Name withheld by request)
Winnipeg