GambleAware Week 2021
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The current pandemic and subsequent restrictions have impacted our communities in many ways , including isolation and economic challenges . These further impose mental health challenges for people in different ways . People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds may be isolated from their families and friends , being away from their countries of origin . They may have different beliefs and attitudes about gambling addiction , as well as mental health issues . This could put them at risk of not recognising the issue and accessing help .
In NSW , GambleAware Week will be held in October , and we interviewed valued specialists in gambling services to hear their perspective about the impact of gambling on our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse ( CALD ) communities .
We spoke to Maria-Lujza ( Marylou ) Ghyczy , Manager Multicultural Problem Gambling Service for NSW ( MPGS ), regarding some of the key elements of problem gambling in CALD communities .
What do you think could be some of the factors contributing to problem gambling in the CALD communities ?
Most people initially gamble for fun and excitement . Focus groups and research revealed that some people from non-English speaking backgrounds see gambling as a way to fit into Australian society to start with . Later on gambling can become a way to “ escape reality ”, overcome isolation to manage symptoms of stress , anxiety and past trauma . Others that believe in the notion of luck may view it as a way to potentially ‘ get rich quick ’.
What do you think could be barriers to help seeking for problem gambling among CALD communities ?
Research shows that people from CALD backgrounds are typically reluctant to formally seek help for gambling problems because of concerns around confidentiality and the shame it would bring their families and cultural communities .
People in communities where addiction is understood to be associated with mental illness do not wish to be identified with this group . The concept of counselling support , language difficulties or awareness of services are also issues for many in accessing support .
Do you think there has been an increase in online gambling during the pandemic lockdown ?
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown many people are experiencing additional stressors and may look to unhelpful coping mechanisms , such as gambling in order to manage . In line with social distancing requirements , Australia ’ s 194,000 poker machines were temporarily shut down . For high-risk gamblers there has been a strong temptation to shift to online gambling . Online gambling operators are putting their efforts into converting these high risk gamblers into more regular customers .
A survey following the first lockdown ( Gambling in Australia during COVID 19 - AGRC Research Summary October 2020 ) found that almost one in three survey participants signed up for a new online betting account during COVID -19 and 1 in 20 started gambling online .
The proportion who gambled four or more times a week increased from 23 to 32 per cent . The most at risk group has been identified as men aged under 30 in full-time employment . [ Changes in Online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic ; Statistical Bulletin 25 , AIC ]
The Multicultural Problem Gambling Service for New South Wales offers free and confidential telephone or face-to-face counselling in a preferred language on 1800 856 800 .
Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre are excited to announce that this important service will be located at our centre , and will provide free services for our north west community , in relevant languages for people seeking support . We are Building a Stronger Community Together . If you would like to find more information , gambling resources , or to connect with Riverstone Neighbourhood Centre phone : 9627 3622 , email reception @ riverstone . org . au , find us on Facebook @ riverstoneneighbourhoodcentre or visit us online at www . riverstone . org . au
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THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 137 // OCTOBER 2021 21