Information for friends and family
When gambling is a problem, the gambler may lie to their family and friends about the extent of their gambling or the amount of money they have lost. Discovering that money for household expenses is gone or that the family home is at risk is a terrible shock for the non-gambling partner. You may feel angry, hurt and betrayed.
As a person without a problem often you can't understand why the person with the gambling problem doesn't just stop. It is important that you remember that you cannot control their behaviour and you are not to blame. You need to focus away from their behaviour and deal with your own feelings. This will help you see the gambler as someone in crisis and out of control. This will allow you to be supportive and understand your feelings and not apply pressure about their behaviour. While it is important that you support them in their struggle, you should not take the burden on yourself. Saying things like "I can't do this for you, but I will be with you while you do it" can be helpful in these circumstances.
Counselling services - including financial and legal services- are available for you. Even if the gambler is unwilling to admit that they have a problem, family members and friends may wish to seek help on their own. Finding out about your options and strategies can assist you in your decision making.
| Title | Date | File type | Link | P |
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| Looking for some hot tips? | 2007 | download |
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| This brochure contains information on responsible gambling strategies, warning signs, strategies for the gambler as well as family and friends. | ||||
| Are you gambling with a child's future? | 2007 | download |
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| Information for parents, carers and teachers on how to manage some of the messages that young people receive about gambling which may lead to misconceptions about the risks associated with this activity. | ||||
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| P | Also available in hardcopy |
Last reviewed 15 January 2008
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