Recognising the problem

Many clients affected by problem gambling will not initially disclose that they have a gambling issue.

They are more likely to seek help for the immediate effects of their problem gambling, such as:

• relationship breakdown
• financial difficulty
• stress
• depression

The reluctance of many clients to admit that they have a gambling problem can be due to a number of factors, including:

• shame and embarrassment
• a fear of being judged
• they do not recognise gambling as the main issue
• they recognise the problems caused by their gambling but do not feel able or ready to tackle the issue

Think your client has a gambling problem?
Find out about the common signs of problem gambling.

Health and social welfare workers outside the Gambler’s Help services are often the first port of call for people seeking help with problem gambling.

As a health and social welfare professional, you can play a crucial role in:

• identifying clients with gambling problems
• offering advice and support
• referring clients to a specialist problem gambling service
• providing advice and support to the families and friends of problem gamblers

By understanding and recognising the symptoms, impacts and dynamics of problem gambling you will be better equipped to:

• effectively assess your client’s problem
• make appropriate treatment or referral interventions

Further reading 

Problem gambling: what do general practitioners need to know and do about it? By Shane A Thomas, Leon Piterman and Alun C Jackson, published in the Medical Journal of Australia (MJA 2008; 189 (3): 135-136)

 

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