How to get help in time
Introduction
Often people miss the moment when excitement ceases to be entertainment and becomes a risk to life and relationships. Taking the timely step for support reduces harm, restores control and speeds up recovery. Here is a practical plan of action at each stage.
1. Signal feature recognition
1. Frequent betting thoughts
- If you regularly return to the idea of "another bet," this is a wake-up call.
2. Mounting losses and debts
- Unprofitable cycles of "catching up," overdue accounts, loans from loved ones.
3. Social isolation
- Refusal of meetings, secrecy, lies about time and expenses.
4. Emotional instability
- Anxiety, irritability, insomnia, worsening mood after losing.
* If you've ticked two or more points, it's time to act. *
2. Difficulty level assessment
1. Self test
- Go online PGSI (Problem Gambling Severity Index). 3 + points - moderate, 8 + - severe risk.
2. Brief conversation with a loved one
- Ask the opinion of a friend or family member: "What do you think about my behavior?"
3. GP consultation
- At the appointment, describe the symptoms - the doctor will determine the degree of impact on health and write Mental Health Care Plan.
3. Select Support Channel
4. Immediately after the decision to contact
1. Hotline
- Call 1800 858 858 (free, around the clock). The operator asks questions, helps to draw up a plan and directs to the services of your state.
2. Online chat
- Gambling Help Online: anonymous chat at any time without waiting.
3. Record to GP
† - Provide test results and describe emotions for Mental Health Care Plan design.
5. First steps in support
1. Technical measures
- BetStop self-exclusion, Gamban/BetBlocker installation.
2. Short-term therapy
- Up to 10 Medicare-subsidized CBT sessions to develop self-monitoring techniques.
3. Self-help groups
- Gamblers Anonymous: regular meetings, "sponsor" for emergency support.
6. Solution anchoring
1. Check-ins plan
- Weekly reports to close or therapist on progress and difficulties.
2. Alternatives to the game
- Hobbies, sports, creativity - plan 3-5 classes a week.
3. Adjustment
- In case of difficulties, revise the techniques, add new CBT or mindfulnes techniques.
Conclusion
Deciding to seek help is a key stage in recovery. Clear diagnosis, selection of the right service and systematic consolidation of new strategies give a chance to regain control over life and prevent relapses of gambling behavior.
Often people miss the moment when excitement ceases to be entertainment and becomes a risk to life and relationships. Taking the timely step for support reduces harm, restores control and speeds up recovery. Here is a practical plan of action at each stage.
1. Signal feature recognition
1. Frequent betting thoughts
- If you regularly return to the idea of "another bet," this is a wake-up call.
2. Mounting losses and debts
- Unprofitable cycles of "catching up," overdue accounts, loans from loved ones.
3. Social isolation
- Refusal of meetings, secrecy, lies about time and expenses.
4. Emotional instability
- Anxiety, irritability, insomnia, worsening mood after losing.
* If you've ticked two or more points, it's time to act. *
2. Difficulty level assessment
1. Self test
- Go online PGSI (Problem Gambling Severity Index). 3 + points - moderate, 8 + - severe risk.
2. Brief conversation with a loved one
- Ask the opinion of a friend or family member: "What do you think about my behavior?"
3. GP consultation
- At the appointment, describe the symptoms - the doctor will determine the degree of impact on health and write Mental Health Care Plan.
3. Select Support Channel
| Difficulty Level | Tool | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Mild signs | Online test, self-help | BeGambleAware Learning |
| Moderate risk | Hotline, online chat | 1800 858 858 (Gambler's Help) |
| Severe risk and disruption | Psychologist, support group | GP → Better Access (up to 10 sessions) |
4. Immediately after the decision to contact
1. Hotline
- Call 1800 858 858 (free, around the clock). The operator asks questions, helps to draw up a plan and directs to the services of your state.
2. Online chat
- Gambling Help Online: anonymous chat at any time without waiting.
3. Record to GP
† - Provide test results and describe emotions for Mental Health Care Plan design.
5. First steps in support
1. Technical measures
- BetStop self-exclusion, Gamban/BetBlocker installation.
2. Short-term therapy
- Up to 10 Medicare-subsidized CBT sessions to develop self-monitoring techniques.
3. Self-help groups
- Gamblers Anonymous: regular meetings, "sponsor" for emergency support.
6. Solution anchoring
1. Check-ins plan
- Weekly reports to close or therapist on progress and difficulties.
2. Alternatives to the game
- Hobbies, sports, creativity - plan 3-5 classes a week.
3. Adjustment
- In case of difficulties, revise the techniques, add new CBT or mindfulnes techniques.
Conclusion
Deciding to seek help is a key stage in recovery. Clear diagnosis, selection of the right service and systematic consolidation of new strategies give a chance to regain control over life and prevent relapses of gambling behavior.
