Re-referrals and long-term support
Introduction
A single call to the hotline is a starting step. Sustained change requires repeated referrals and systemic support. Below - without unnecessary water, everything is about how long-term support is built through Gamblers Help, Lifeline and related programs.
1. Follow-up sessions via hotline
1. Next Contact Agreement
The consultant suggests the date and time of the next call or chat (usually in 3-7 days).
2. Purpose of recourse
Check the implementation of the plan: the operation of limits, timeout, technical measures and self-observation diary.
3. Format
Short conversation (10-15 min): what succeeded, with what difficulties arose, clarification of new steps.
2. Regular consultations
Individual sessions
By phone, chat or video: once a week or once every two weeks until stabilization.
Family gatherings- Joint sessions with loved ones: help in building house rules and checking the "controller."
- Group programs
Courses lasting 8-12 weeks (CBT, motivational interview, family therapy).
3. Transition to specialized services
1. Gamblers Help State Centers
Registration for face-to-face consultations and groups in your region (free of charge).
2. Private clinics and rehabilitation centres
In a serious or prolonged case: a hospital for 1 month or outpatient treatment.
3. Financial and legal advice
In parallel, specialists in debt and bankruptcy are connected to eliminate the debt burden.
4. Independent work between calls
Keeping a diary
Recording sessions, emotions, expenses and triggers daily.
Self-diagnostics
Repeated PGSI tests every month to monitor the level of risk.
"Controller" support
Weekly reports to a friend or family member who checks limits and diary.
5. Long-term support groups
Gamblers Anonymous (GA)
Weekly face-to-face or online 12-step program meetings.
Gam-Anon
For relatives and partners - regularly discuss their successes and difficulties.
Online forums and instant messengers
Interest chats, webinars and themed rooms available around the clock.
6. Relapse prevention
1. Quarterly audits
With a consultant, assess progress, adjust limits and treatment plan.
2. Reminders and Notifications
Mobile notifications of upcoming wellness and financial checks.
3. Maintaining skills
Repeated webinars on cognitive techniques and stress management.
Conclusion
Repeated appeals are ruled by a course of assistance: short follow-up, regular individual and group sessions, transition to a hospital or outpatient programs, self-control and support of the "controller" form a long-term protection against gambling addiction. Use all levels of service - and recovery will be systemic and sustainable.
