You’ve been asked to manage someone’s money: Now what?

If a friend has reached out to ask you to help them manage their money, you may be confused about why and don’t quite know what to do. Asking a trusted friend or family member for help to handle money is a common strategy that many people use to stop or reduce their gambling. It’s …

The role of positive early experiences

People that struggle with problem gambling often ask themselves “Why me? Why can’t I stop?”. Many view it as an addiction, while others view it as something they’ve inherited in their genes especially when parents or other family members have been heavy gamblers. Others again berate themselves as being ‘so stupid’ and just unable to …

To tell or not to tell

Problem gambling can be a very isolating experience. Initially you might have started gambling with friends or family. It was a fun experience, social and quite enjoyable. Now you find yourself gambling alone for several hours chasing those losses. Hoping and praying you can make back what you’ve lost. A lot of people experiencing difficulties …

What does harmful gambling look like?

Problem gambling does not discriminate and can be found in all age groups, income groups, jobs, and cultural backgrounds. Some may have developed gambling problems suddenly, while others may have struggled for many years. Problem gambling is not only about losing money, but is also harmful because of its potential devastating impact on the emotional, …

My loved one has a problem with gambling – What can I do to help?

Problem gambling does not just affect those who gamble, but also those who are closest to the individual. As a partner, a family member, or close friend, you may have found yourself experiencing feelings of guilt, resentment, helplessness, and confusion. You may have even found yourself asking whether you are responsible for your loved one’s …

Let’s talk about…

Suicide is a difficult topic to talk about. It is can be hard to hear that another human being is feeling so much anguish they are seriously considering ending their life and it is certainly difficult to talk about one’s own suicidality – past and present. However, there are reasons this topic should not be …

Why do I have a problem with gambling while my friends don’t?

Thoughts about gambling are one of the main factors which differentiate somebody with a gambling problem from a non-gambler or a recreational gambler. “Why do I have a problem with gambling while my friends don’t?” is often a question that people with gambling problems bring to treatment. The answer to this question can be found in …

Having the strength to reach out

In recent decades, awareness about the importance of talking about our problems, instead of keeping them hidden, has increased among the community. In spite of this, many people think that talking about their problems, or asking for help, is a sign of weakness, and that dealing with problems on your own is a sign of …

The impact of gambling on loved ones

People with problematic levels of gambling are not the only ones who suffer the negative consequences of gambling. Those closest to them, such as a partner, a child, family member or close friend, may suffer too. This distress can often go unnoticed. Recent research has indicated that partners of individuals with problematic levels of gambling …

Problem gambling and the workplace – keep an eye out for a mate

This week, 26-31 May, is Responsible Gambling Awareness Week, and this year Gambling Help services are working with local businesses across NSW to promote the free range of support services available, and to encourage people to keep an eye out at work for their workmates. There can be many psychological, social and financial consequences for individuals …