The New South Wales government has launched a new campaign aimed at encouraging at-risk and problem gamblers to seek help. The new You’re Stronger Than You Think campaign endeavours to help problem gamblers get the help they need before it is too late. Problem gambling is an addiction that is very easy to hide. Unlike alcoholism or drug abuse, the signs tend to be quite subtle.

So, loved ones of problem gamblers don’t notice that help is needed until the addiction is too far gone. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that problem gambling comes with a dangerous stigma. With other forms of addiction, others are more sympathetic. Problem gamblers are shamed and blamed for their own addiction, which is why many individuals are afraid to come forward. This campaign aims to stop that.

It wants to ensure that problem gamblers feel safe when seeking help so that they don’t put it off until it’s too late. "Most people will wait anywhere from two to 10 years – and that's too long,” says Chris Davidson, a gambling counsellor. “A lot of damage can be done in that time, financial, relationship breakdowns, family breakdowns, loss of career”.

The campaign targets men aged 30 and 49. According to research, this demographic seems to be the most affected by problem gambling in New South Wales. So, You’re Stronger Than You Think aims to appeal to those that are most at risk. Seeking help is the first step to a healthy recovery, and this campaign wants to ensure that problem gamblers get a head start.

If you or someone you know may be at risk of developing a gambling addiction, there are many resources available to help.

Call 1 800 858 858, or visit www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au for more information on counselling and other support services.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.