|
The Australian Productivity Commission's 1999 Inquiry into Australia's Gambling Industries stated that:
1. 2.1% of the Australian adult population, or around 293,000 people have a significant gambling problem.
2. On average around seven other people are affected by a severe problem gambler's behaviour. That's around 2 million Australians.
Problem Gambling is clearly a major public health issue in Australia.
Gambling becomes a problem if someone spends more time or money than they can afford or it is having a negative impact on their relationships.
If you want to control your urge to gamble, what can you do?
1. Be honest with yourself about how much you are losing (keep a record).
2. Only gamble if you can afford to lose the money.
3. Do not have your EFTPOS or credit card with you if you gamble.
4. Break the power of the secret about your gambling and tell someone who cares about you - or telephone a counsellor.
5. Manage your stress: eat regularly; cut down on caffeine.
6. Do not drink alcohol while gambling.
1. Have a friend go with you when you are shopping.
2. Arrange a bill paying service with a bank or credit union.
If you suspect you may have a problem with gambling, call the Gambling Help Line for a free 24 hour anonymous counselling referral service in Western Australia: 1800 622 112
Reprinted with kind permission of Relationships Australia
August 2001
|
