Gambling advertising during prime time and family viewing…
Unfortunately it wasn’t to be for the Blues last night (State of Origin - Game 1: 05.06.2024). However, as we sat there watching, I was again reminded of how uncomfortable I am being bombarded with gambling ads, prices and incentives. Not to mention the impacts it's having on my two children (Under 12) and others. This shouldn't be normal during prime time, where children and the vulnerable (young people, people with a disability and those impacted by trauma and mental health conditions) are just trying to enjoy the spectacle of sport.
What is problem gambling?
"Problem gambling does not have to mean you are totally out of control. It's any gambling behaviour that disrupts your life, your relationships or the lives of your loved ones."
Source: Lifeline.org.au
"Lifetime experiences of surviving trauma are related to increased risks of problem gambling behaviors. Problem gambling behaviors are highly comorbid with individual reports of trauma1 and a greater clinical prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder.2"
Source: Oregon.gov (Oregon Health Authority)
"People with lifelong disability exhibit similar characteristics to that of other groups who are known to be at risk of experiencing gambling harm. Characteristics such as low income, reduced employment opportunities, receiving welfare payments, restricted access to health services, social isolation, reduced understanding of risk and limited access to health services are just some of the potential risk factors that may contribute to gambling behaviours and harm [Armstrong and Carroll, 2017; Department of Health and Human Services, 2018; Johansson et al., 2009]."
Source: People with intellectual disability and their lived experiences of gambling September 2020 Research Paper - Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation
If you, or someone you care for, are having trouble with gambling, here are some practical steps you can take:
- Talk to your trusted family member, friend and / or nominated guardian/advocate to ask for immediate help
- Talk to your trusted medical professional, like your GP
- Self exclude yourself: BetStop – the National Self-Exclusion Register™ and the licensed premises you attend
- Contact your financial institution/s and place bans on financial transactions related to gambling
- Gambling Help Online (https://lnkd.in/gXKeFacz)
- Telephone support: You can get immediate assistance by calling the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free, professional and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Financial counselling is available to support people affected by gambling harm. Visit the department’s Commonwealth Financial Counselling webpage for more information (https://lnkd.in/gYYNEpst)
I'm sure we’re not the only one with these concerns.
