Problem gambling is a growing concern among Chinese communities in Australia. To help combat this problem, the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has established the ‘Multicultural Problem Gambling Program for Chinese Communities’. According to the WSLHD, nearly half of all Western Sydney residents speak a language other than English in their homes.
Seven percent of these individuals speak several different Chinese dialects. This new program aims to help individuals who speak in Chinese dialects, offering counselling and assistance in language that will be understood by the Chinese population of Western Sydney.
"We have made the program available in Cantonese and Mandarin with the aim of helping community members understand that there is assistance for people who feel they are at a loss and do not know where to turn," says Maria-Lujza Edwards, manager of the new program. Representatives of the WSLHD recognize that gambling is a fun pastime, but that it can become harmful when individuals lose control of their spending.
From there, it can be a downward spiral if the individual does not seek help from services like the Multicultural Problem Gambling Program. The program is available for individuals who require assistance in getting their gambling spending under control so that they do not find themselves deep in debt or putting a strain on their relationships with friends and family members.
"For some people, problem gambling can lead to financial problems and the breakdown of relationships with family and friends," Ms Edwards continues. To take advantage of the helpful services offered by the Multicultural Problem Gambling program, call 1800 856 800 to speak with a counsellor.
You can call if you yourself are having issues controlling your gambling or if you suspect that a friend or family member is struggling with problem gambling.
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