National Gambling Helpline

Introduction

National Gambling Helpline (NGH) is Australia's single federal phone service to support people with signs of problem gambling and their loved ones. The line operates 24 hours a day and free nationwide, bringing together qualified counselors, psychologists and financial counseling professionals.

1. Performance Highlights

24/7 availability: Call taken 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
Free: by 1800 858 858 number from anywhere in Australia.
Anonymity and confidentiality: the operator does not save personal data, the entire conversation is protected.
Multidisciplinarity: Addiction psychology specialists, financial advisors and social workers provide answers.

2. When to call

1. Obsessive thoughts about the game appeared: constant planning of bets, "Dogon" losses.
2. Growth of debts and financial problems: loans, microloans, loans from friends.
3. Emotional signs: irritability, anxiety, insomnia, depression after losing.
4. Conflicts in the family and at work: deterioration of relationships, reduced productivity, walks due to sessions.
5. Desire to throw, but unsuccessful attempts: a series of unsuccessful "self-exclusions" and a return to betting.

3. Handling algorithm

1. Type a 1800 858 858 or find a link to an online chat on your state's Gambler's Help site.
2. Introduce yourself briefly (at will) and describe the problem: when the game began to bother, how often you bet, what difficulties you are experiencing.
3. Answer the consultant's clarifying questions: about the financial situation, emotional state and attempts to control.
4. Get an individual support plan: recommendations for technical measures (BetStop, blockers), psychological self-control techniques and possible help groups.
5. Sign up for further consultations: if in-depth work with a psychotherapist or financial adviser is required.

4. What services does NGH provide?

Short-term intervention: stabilization of emotional state, emergency advice.
Psychological counseling: identifying triggers, learning cognitive behavioral self-help strategies.
Financial coaching: assessing debts, prioritizing payments and drawing up a restructuring plan.
Self-exclusion support: help with registration in BetStop and setting up blockers (Gamban, BetBlocker).
Navigation through services: referral to Gamblers Anonymous groups, Gambler's Help regional centers, telemedicine services.

5. Advantages and features

Single point of access: no need to look for local numbers - one number for the whole of Australia.
Quick response: the consultant answers in the very first minutes of the call, without waiting in line.
Comprehensive approach: psychological and financial assistance are combined in one service.
Support for loved ones: Relatives and friends can call for advice on supporting an addict.

6. Next steps after the call

1. Technical measures: activate BetStop, install gambling blockers on devices.
2. Support groups: Find your nearest Gamblers Anonymous meeting or online group.
3. Individual support: Sign up for a series of counselling sessions with a psychologist and/or financial adviser through your local Gambler's Help.
4. Keeping a diary: record every day without bets, note difficult moments and applied strategies.
5. Establishing new routines: Swap betting time for hobbies, sports and social activities.

Conclusion

National Gambling Helpline is a key resource for anyone who has experienced difficulties controlling gambling. Emergency availability, comprehensive services and complete anonymity make it an indispensable tool on the road to recovery and the restoration of financial and emotional well-being. Do not postpone - calling the 1800 858 858 number can be the first step towards a new life.