Let’s talk about Gambling and it’s risks

Many people enjoy gambling – whether it’s playing the pokies, betting online, or buying a lottery ticket. For most, it’s a fun activity, but for some, gambling can stop being a harmless pastime and turn into a serious problem.

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling refers to when a person loses control over how much money and time they spend gambling, which causes harm to their personal life, work, and relationships.

Some types of gambling are more likely to lead to problems. For example, pokies (electronic gaming machines) are much more likely to cause harm than other forms of gambling like lotteries. Online gambling, including sports betting and electronic casinos, is also a growing concern, especially because of how easily accessible they are and the privacy they offer.

Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling doesn’t have one single cause. However, there are many signs that can help you recognise if someone is struggling with it. These signs can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and finances.

Cognitive and emotional

  • Constantly thinking about gambling

  • Feeling irritated or restless when trying to stop

  • Gambling to escape problems or to feel better

  • Needing to gamble more to get the same excitement

Behavioural

  • Arguing with family or friends about gambling

  • Struggling in relationships due to money or financial issues

  • Lying or hiding gambling habits

  • Having problems at work or with study because of gambling

  • Repeated attempts to quit, but failing

  • Finding it hard to resist the urge to gamble

Financial

  • Relying on others to fix financial problems caused by gambling

  • Legal problems due to debt or money troubles

  • Gambling to win back money that has been lost.

How Gambling Affects People

Gambling can affect many areas of life, including physical health, mental wellbeing, relationships, and finances. It's important to understand that while gambling can be fun for some, it can also lead to serious consequences when it becomes uncontrollable.

Treatment for Problem Gambling

There are several ways to help someone manage and recover from problem gambling. Some of the most effective treatments include:

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling or its effects, it’s important to seek help. Support is available, and with the right treatment, people can manage their problems and live a fulfilling life.

Reach out to mental health professionals, your GP, or our organisation for advice and support. We are here to help and support the community, and together, we can make it easier for everyone to talk openly about gambling issues.

Remember, you are not alone.

Please share this resource with your friends and family to help raise awareness about gambling issues in your community. Together, we can create a space where everyone feels comfortable discussing gambling problems and seeking help when needed.

  • CBT helps people change harmful thoughts and behaviours. It’s particularly useful for addressing things like superstitions and stress triggers, helping to reduce gambling habits. CBT can be done in person or online.

  • This approach helps individuals explore their reasons for wanting to change their gambling behaviour and supports them in making that change. It includes setting goals and boosting confidence to make positive choices.

  • MET is a shorter treatment option that gives personalised feedback to encourage behaviour change. It usually involves four sessions, where a person’s progress is reviewed and goals are reinforced.