Gambling counselling and support

Understanding Gambling Harm

Gambling can affect not only the person who gambles but also their family, friends, workplace, and community. Gambling harm can take many forms, and anyone connected to gambling—whether as a player, family member, or staff member—can be impacted.

How Gambling Harm May Affect You

You might be experiencing gambling harm if you notice any of the following in yourself or someone you care about:

• Difficulty controlling the amount of money or time spent on gambling
• Feeling restless, anxious, or unable to sleep due to gambling thoughts or activities
• Hiding or lying about gambling behaviour or its consequences
• Strained relationships with family, friends, or colleagues
• Financial stress or debt linked to gambling
• Emotional distress such as guilt, shame, anxiety, or depression
• Reduced work performance or absence from work
• Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope with gambling urges or impacts
• Feeling isolated or withdrawing from social activities

Family members and venue staff may also experience stress, worry, or conflict as a result of someone’s gambling, as well as a sense of helplessness or responsibility.

How Our Gambling Help Service Can Support You

If you or someone you know is affected by gambling harm, support is available—completely free of charge—for anyone experiencing gambling-related difficulties.

1. Flexible and Client-Led: We work with you to explore your needs and goals, tailoring support in a way that suits you. There’s no set limit on the number of counselling sessions; you decide what works best.
2. Accessible Appointments: Sessions can be conducted face-to-face, over the phone, or via telehealth video calls to make support accessible wherever you are.
3. Ongoing Support: You can start, pause, or return to counselling at any time. We’ll also follow up with you to help keep your goals on track.

Additional Services We Offer

• Assistance with self-exclusion processes to help limit access to gambling venues or platforms
• Referrals to other community support and specialist services
• Training and professional development for venue staff and service providers to increase awareness and improve responses to gambling harm
• Community education programs designed to raise awareness and understanding about gambling harm in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and community groups
• Telehealth services to provide convenient access to support regardless of location

Tips for Minimising Gambling Harm

Whether you gamble or are supporting someone who does, these strategies may help reduce harm:

• Only take money you can afford to lose and leave cards or payment methods at home
• Keep a record of your gambling activity including wins and losses to stay aware
• Reflect on your thoughts and feelings about gambling and challenge unhelpful beliefs
• Make a list of reasons for and against gambling to clarify your choices
• Find alternative activities you enjoy like walking, movies, or visiting friends to distract from urges
• Talk openly with someone you trust about gambling and its effects
• Reach out to a qualified Gambling Help counsellor to explore support options

If gambling is causing difficulties for you or someone you care about, help is available—reach out today.

Contact us now to arrange an appointment or learn more.

• Far North Qld:
  07 4050 4988 -office hours- 8:30am-4:30pm
• Central Qld:
  0498 000 325 -office hours- 8:30am-4:30pm
• Wide Bay & Burnett:
  07 4191 3100 -office hours- 8:30am-4:30pm
• Out of Hours: 1800 858 858

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