While gambling remains a popular pastime, and is often embraced as an accepted part of ‘Aussie culture’, problem gambling can impact heavily on families, friends and the community. For many people, gambling is simply a way to have fun, and making money is just a bonus. For some people, however, gambling can become problematic and many aspects of your life can be negatively affected. If you, or someone you know, gambles more money than he/she intended or can afford, lies about or hides the gambling, or his/her prior interests or activities are seriously affected by their gambling, he/she may be showing signs of problematic gambling. With the growth of gambling over the internet, gambling facilities are now easier to access, money is easier to spend recklessly and gambling may be done in private, where supportive others are unaware of what is going on. All these factors can increase the susceptibility to problem gambling and prevent gamblers getting the help that they need.

Luckily, there are a number of ways to help control your gambling and prevent a problem from developing or becoming worse.