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Gambling

About the Author

Careernav in collaboration with Aust Gambling Research

The ministerial Council on Gambling is comprised of the Ministers responsible for gambling in each State and Territory Government and the Australian Government. The objective of the Council is to minimise the adverse consequences of problem gambling via the exchange of information on responsible gambling measures.

By Careernav in collaboration with Aust Gambling Research

So how can you tell when your gambling is an issue?

These are some signs that might mean you have a problem gambling. Do you:

Gamble to avoid dealing with troubles or disappointments
Lie about gambling, or keep it a secret
Skip work or study to gamble
Think about gambling every day
Spending less time with family and friends than the time spent gambling
Borrow money to gamble
Gamble to win money, not just for fun
Argue with loved ones about gambling
Don’t pay the bills because you’re using the money on gambling
Try to quit gambling, but just can’t do it

If gambling does turn into an addiction, there are many possible consequences for the gambler, and those around them. Each case is different, and so depending on the severity of the addiction, the consequences include:

Feelings of agitation, anxiety or depression
Financial hardship or bankruptcy
Relationship or family breakdown
Legal difficulties
Job loss
Feelings of despair, dread, and worthlessness
Possible self-harm
Criminal activity and potential imprisonment

As well as impacting on friends or family by:

Feeling pressure to lend money
Having loans dishonoured
Worrying about the gambler’s well being and future
Feeling disconnected from the gambler’s life
Feelings of anxiety and depression, often due to financial crisis

Gambling can be a social experience, easy to let go once the gathering is over. However, for some, it can turn into a serious problem which can be detrimental to their life, and the lives of those around them.