Blog

Gambling as a Coping Mechanism: How Trauma Can Lead to Gambling Harm

Wednesday, 5 July 2023

Trauma can have profound and long-lasting effects on a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

Painful memories and negative emotions may linger in the aftermath, leading to possible mental health issues such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety.

Some people use gambling to escape from the stress and emotional pain caused by their trauma. While gambling might offer temporary distraction and relief, people who have experienced trauma are at a higher risk and vulnerability of gambling harm.

How can I protect my children from gambling in the family?

Thursday, 27 April 2023

Are your children exposed to gambling through a parent, grandparent, or other family member? If so, they’re likely experiencing the negative consequences of gambling harm.

Research shows that on average, one person’s gambling has a ripple effect impacting around six people around them, from partners and children to friends and workmates.

Gambling and How to Build Better Habits

Wednesday, 26 April 2023

We all have habits we’ve created in our lives – good or bad – and changing our habits can feel overwhelming.

Have you ever tried to change your gambling habits when you felt motivated, but it didn’t seem to work in the long run?

Maybe you’re worried you spend too much time and money on gambling, and you’ve reached a point where you’re ready to take control of your gambling habits.

If this sounds like you, understanding how habits are formed and how to build healthy habits can help guide you on the right track towards safer gambling.

Gambling Harm in Rural Communities

Wednesday, 19 April 2023

Gaming venues in rural and regional areas can be a go-to location to socialise and provide a sense of comfortability and entertainment.

They can also provide opportunities for employment and togetherness in smaller towns that have limited local activities on offer.

Along with the local community, fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers are often drawn to gaming venues when they’re working in rural mining towns.

I think my partner gambles too much – how would I know?

Wednesday, 22 March 2023

Are you worried about your partner’s gambling?

You might feel like they’re gambling too much, or maybe their gambling has started to impact your relationship.

The signs of gambling harm aren’t always obvious because gambling can be easier to hide than alcohol and drug use, for example.

It can be hard to know whether someone’s gambling has become an issue for them, especially if they’re trying to hide the extent of their gambling from you and others.

Footy Season and Gambling: Kicking Gambling Habits to the Sideline

Monday, 27 February 2023

Another exciting football season is about to kick off!

It’s no secret that Aussies love our sport – especially the footy. NRL, AFL, and rugby are all as engrained in Australian culture as Vegemite and AC/DC.

Many of us have memories of gathering around the telly and watching a game with our family, or heading to the local pub to back our team and have some banter with mates.

But unfortunately, not everyone can enjoy a game of footy for the spectacle it is without associating it with gambling.

Young People, Horseracing and Socialising

Friday, 4 November 2022

Once known for its horseracing and bold fashion choices, the Melbourne Cup and other spring racing events have become a social hangout arena for many young people.

Basically, it’s an excuse to dress up and party with friends.

What does ‘safer gambling’ look like? 10 steps to reduce risk

Friday, 4 November 2022

You may see resources and ads encouraging the practice of safer gambling – but what exactly does that look like?

Safer gambling means you’re applying low-risk strategies to your gambling to reduce the risk of gambling harm. These strategies might include leaving non-essential money and bank cards at home to prevent spending more than you can afford to lose on gambling.

Following our 10 steps for safer gambling is a great start for some people, but it’s important to consider your unique situation and what works for you.

Gambling and Mental Health

Friday, 4 November 2022

Mental Health Week (October 8-16) was an important reminder of how mental health is a part of all our lives.

This year’s theme focused on awareness, belonging, and connection, reflecting the important factors that help people maintain positive mental health and wellbeing.

Our mental health influences how we think, feel, and act. This affects how we manage stress, make choices, and connect with others.

Gambling harm can have a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of the person gambling and the people in their life.

Support for Partners and Families Experiencing Gambling Harm

Monday, 19 September 2022

Gambling harm can have serious consequences, not just for the person gambling, but also for the people in their life.

Research shows that on average, one person’s gambling has a ripple effect impacting six people around them. This might include intimate partners, children, extended family, friends, colleagues, and the community.

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Contact us

If gambling is impacting your life or a loved one's life, it's okay to reach out for help. It’s free and confidential.

Call the 24/7 Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858

Face-to-face counselling locations