Assistance for Professionals

Gambling is often a hidden concern. People with gambling problems report feelings of shame and guilt. This website may be a useful resource for you or your clients in normalising their experience and providing a less confronting entry point into thinking about change. 

To assist people concerned about a gambling issue, our website contains information, assessment and intervention strategies, such as:

• Recognising the signs of a gambling problem
• How gambling problems develop. Gambling problems tend to develop as people progress from 'social' to 'heavy' and then 'problematic' levels of gambling. People may also go backwards and forwards in the cycle.
• The relationship between gambling and other mental health concerns including depression, anxiety and alcohol use.
• Strategies for regaining control including cognitive, behavioural and money management strategies.
• The impact of gambling on others. It is estimated that for every person with a gambling problem, 5-7 other people are affected.

Research into the causes, consequences and treatment of problem gambling is well documented in Australia and internationally. Some helpful resources:

• For the latest research on gambling in Australia, the Gambling Research Australia website is responsible for managing and implementing a national research agenda. http://www.gamblingresearch.org.au/
• For information about the Productivity Commission's public enquiry into gambling in Australia. http://www.pc.gov.au/projects/inquiry/gambling-2009
• For information on gaming in Australia, including economic, social and community issues visit the Australian Gaming Council website. http://www.austgamingcouncil.org.au/
• For international journal articles and the latest information on the treatment of gambling. http://www.abgaminginstitute.ualberta.ca/
• The Journal of Gambling Issues offers an Internet-based forum regarding developments in gambling-related research, policy and treatment as well as personal accounts about gambling and gambling behaviour.  It is a useful resource for delivering empirically-based interventions. www.camh.net/egambling

In most cases states and territories around Australia have information and resources on their website. Professionals can contact local services for more information. There is also a range of specialist resources available. 

• Our online counsellors can assist with any queries related to a gambling concern. Professionals can access our services as a registered or anonymous contact.
• Clients that require assistance between sessions might find it helpful to access our live counselling. Clients can then discuss the online session with their primary treatment provider.
• Professionals might also want to access our online services so that they feel confident in referring clients to this service.