How to get treatment as part of the hotline recommendations

1. Receive directions from operator

On the first call to the 1800 858 858, the operator:

• Evaluates the degree of dependence and suicidal risk.
• Offers a list of licensed professionals and programs in your area.
• Agrees on a "follow-up" - a call back to control and clarify the plan.

2. Choice of treatment format

1. Face-to-face consultation

Psychologist or psychiatrist at the state Mental Health Services clinic.
Available by Medicare referral (Rebates up to 10 sessions per year).
2. Online therapy

Platforms Gambling Help Online (chat, video).
Convenient for remote regions and with a shortage of time.
3. Combined approach

Alternating face-to-face sessions and telemedicine for schedule flexibility.

3. Initial evaluation and planning

Diagnostic interview (1-2 sessions of 60 minutes) according to DSM-5 criteria.
Definition of goals: complete withdrawal or rate control, timing of achievement.
Making an individual plan:

• Type of therapy (CBT, motivational interview, etc.).
• Frequency of meetings (1-2 times a week).
• Additional interventions (medications, groups).

4. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Focus: changing distorted beliefs about the game, developing impulse control skills.
Duration: 8-12 sessions of 50-60 minutes.
Methods:

• Keeping a diary of game calls.
• Training of alternative reactions (recommendations of the hotline operator).
• Homework to consolidate skills.

5. Medication support

It is indicated for severe anxiety or depression against the background of addiction.
Antidepressants (SSRIs): fluoxetine, sertraline - a course of 3 months or more.
Antipsychotics and antipsychotics - in rare, severe cases under the supervision of a psychiatrist.
Prescription and condition control - through regular visits to the doctor.

6. Group therapy and self-help

Gamblers Anonymous: Weekly 12-step program meetings.
Support groups at clinics: facilitator - a qualified psychologist.
Online communities: forums and closed chats recommended by the hotline operator.

7. Social rehabilitation programs

Family therapy: working with relatives to restore trust and support.
Financial consulting: jointly with partners - receiving a budget, planning debt payments.
Career guidance and stress management classes: groups in employment centers and medical clinics.

8. Monitoring progress

Monthly reports: assessment with a psychotherapist and a hotline operator based on the results of a follow-up.
Key metrics: number of days without bets, number of play calls, subjective quality of life.
Plan adjustment: changing the frequency of sessions, switching to in-depth formats (DBT, EMDR).

9. Interaction with the hotline during treatment

Regular "follow-ups": automatically by agreement or at their own request.
Emergency support: in case of relapse or suicidal thoughts - repeated call without queue and redirection to stationary services.

10. Completion of the course and further support

Final assessment: an overview of the goals achieved, recommendations for the prevention of relapses.
Supportive sessions: once a month for six months for the sustainability of the result.
Long-term groups: Participating in monthly Gamblers Anonymous meetings or online chat with program alumni.

By applying the hotline recommendations and progressing through the proposed stages of therapy, you receive structured, multidisciplinary support: from initial assessment to long-term recovery and relapse prevention. Follow the plan, engage with professionals, and use available resources to achieve sustained control over gaming addiction.