Does someone you care about have an issue with gambling?

You cannot force someone to acknowledge that they have an issue with gambling but you can encourage them to seek professional help. If you're not sure how to approach the situation, a counsellor can help point you in the right direction.

Talk to us before you talk to them

Free counselling and support is available for people who are concerned about someone else's gambling.

FREECALL 1800 858 858 24 hours, 7 days a week, or go to www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for advice, support and help.

For the hearing impaired FREECALL 1800 777 706.

How do you know if someone close to you has an issue with gambling?

People gamble for many reasons - for excitement, the thrill of winning or to be social. Gambling becomes an issue when it causes harm to the gambler and those close to them. Usually this means they are spending more money or time on gambling than they can afford.

Signs that gambling has become and issue »

Does one of your parents have an issue with gambling?

You can get help for your family. Gambler's Help is not just for gamblers. Free, confidential, professional counselling is available for families where gambling has become an issue.

Find out how you can get help now »

Remember - you cannot change a gambler's behaviour - they have to be willing to change themselves.

As a person without a problem you might find it hard to understand why the person with the gambling problem doesn't just stop. They seem like a run-away train. You might try many ways to stop them but you just can't control the person's behaviour.

Learn how you can help a gambler

Learn some strategies to help you deal with someone's gambling

 

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