Problem Gambling Demystified: Prevalence, Signs, and Support. Jonas Ogonowski Helen Tometzki Relationships Australia Queensland

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1 Problem Gambling Demystified: Prevalence, Signs, and Support Jonas Ogonowski Helen Tometzki Relationships Australia Queensland

2 Outline Definition Gambling as an Addiction Prevalence Impact What is the Gambling Help Service Signs and Symptoms Research on GHS outcomes

3 What is Problem Gambling Problem gambling is characterised by difficulties in limiting money and/or time spent on gambling which leads to adverse consequences for the gambler, others, or for the community Queensland Responsible Gambling Code of Practice, September 2012 V. 4

4 What is Problem Gambling DSM-V: Addiction and Related Disorders Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress Addiction Disorders Similar in clinical expression, brain origin, comorbidity, physiology, and treatment methods. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

5 Prevalence of Problem Gambling 0.15%-4.7% Worldwide 0.7%-1.7% in Australia Significant impact on relationships, finances and employment Depression and/or Anxiety ~50% Substance Use ~33%

6 Impact of Problem Gambling Vocational Personal Financial Interpersonal Legal

7 Gambling Help Service What is the Gambling Help Service (GHS)? Queensland State Government funded service that provides services to individuals and families who experience difficulties because of gambling. These services include; prevention and early intervention counselling, crisis intervention and support We focus on harm minimisation strategies and how to gamble responsibly The GHS Referral Process PG contacts 1800 Help line SELF REFERRAL Access GHS / FC Access GHS Therapeutic intervention provided FC strengthsbased approach Therapeutic intervention provided

8 Gambling Help Service The focus of GHS sessions and desired outcomes Counselling provides FREE face to face or telephone support for gamblers, family, friends, and venue staff Motivational Enhancement Therapy; Enhance motivation, self-efficacy, and awareness of gambling triggers Improve emotional management, problem solving & communication skills. Assistance with self-exclusion, money management, relapse prevention, and referral to other services as needed.

9 Financial Counselling (FC) provides strength based counselling which identifies their micro money management skills and redirects and extends these skills to improve their overall financial position. provide comprehensive financial assessment; assist with money management skills and understanding where money is going; introduce cash safety net strategies; offer education and information on clients rights and responsibility relating to debt and debt collection; consumer credit laws and legal rights; hardship applications, negotiations with creditors, payment arrangements and waivers; internal dispute resolution and ombudsman scheme; government eligibility schemes; bankruptcy;

10 The Gambling Continuum* Gambling Seen As.. Can Be Seen As And Present As Entertainment Chasing losses Depression Hobby Guilt Serious Suicidal thoughts Social activity Arguments Divorce Pleasant surroundings Concealment of gambling High expenditures Debt and poverty Crime *Adapted from Productivity Commission 1999, Australia s Gambling Industries, Report No. 10

11 Signs and Symptoms When someone develops a gambling problem, there are often noticeable changes to their mood and behaviour, including: Becoming withdrawn from others/family events Performance at work is being affected Seeming worried, agitated or upset for no apparent reason Reporting feeling hopeless, depressed, frustrated or suicidal Changes in personality - sleeping, eating, or sexual relationship patterns Controlling and/or manipulative behaviour Using threats, lies or charm to manipulate others

12 Evaluating Client Outcomes Longitudinal study Measured gambling severity, work and social issues, depression, anxiety and stress 50 clients: 27 (54%) male, 21 female (42%), 2 ns 24 to 74 years (M=46, SD=13) 1 ATSI, 2 CALD Reliable Change Index

13 Evaluating Client Outcomes Improvement at 1 year follow-up 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% Recovered Reliable Improvement No Change Reliable Deterioration 10% 0% Gambling Severity Work and Social Adjustment Depression Anxiety Stress

14 Conclusions Key Messages Problem gambling can have devastating impacts on peoples lives, their loved ones, and our community. Many people want help yet struggle to ask for support People with problem gambling have increased likelihood of also suffering with depression, anxiety, and substance use. Support is available and recovery is possible.

15 Questions?