It may not be the obvious conversation starter, but people are being urged to use Gambling Harm Awareness Week to educate themselves on how to broach the issue of problem gambling with someone whose gambling behaviour is becoming a concern.
The theme for this year’s week (October 16 to 22) is ‘Talk. Share. Support.’
Primary Care Connect is a primary health services provider in the Goulburn Valley and said it could be daunting for anyone whose gambling was having a negative impact on their health and wellbeing to disclose it.
“It’s human nature to avoid awkward conversations, but enduring some discomfort now could be the difference between a loved one getting back on track early and them experiencing more severe consequences later,” Primary Care Connect chief executive Trish Quibell said.
Primary Care Connect’s Gambler’s Help Community Engagement Worker Freddy Thuruthikattu said 94 per cent of Gambler’s Help clients in 2022-23 said counselling helped them with issues relating to giving up gambling and financial, emotional and psychological outcomes.
“Gambling can change how a person feels and behaves, so encouraging them to share what’s on their mind can be an effective first step,” he said.
“It is important to choose the right time and place to broach this kind of conversation — it should be somewhere that offers privacy and at a time when interruptions are unlikely.
“Let the person know that you want to support them but also respect their boundaries.”
Primary Care Connect will conduct two information sessions during the week, one with Year 10 students from Greater Shepparton Secondary College and the other a Gambler’s Help Drumbeats session at the Yitjawudik Recovery Centre.
It will also be involved with the ‘100 cuppas’ community event on Tuesday, October 17 at the Shepparton Senior Citizens Centre from 9am to 11am, and at Taste of Capri in Mooroopna from 11.30am to 1.30pm.
For further information on gambling harm or to reach out for counselling or other help, call Primary Care Connect on 03 5823 3200 or go to www.primarycareconnect.com.au/Services/Gamblers-Help
For more tips and to access a new podcast, Let’s talk gambling, with clinical psychologist Dr Anastasia Hronis, visit gamblershelp.com.au
There is also the 24/7 Gambler’s Help line on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential advice and support.
Common signs of gambling harm
- Stress
- Irritability
- Secrecy
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
- Drinking or smoking more than usual
- Not spending as much time with family or friends
- Frequently borrowing money
- Intermittent periods of having lots of cash and no cash
- An intense interest in sporting odds and using multiple betting apps