Online bets won’t beat COVID blues
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With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Gambling Harm Awareness Week (18 to 24 October) is a timely reminder for Canberrans to consider the impacts gambling may have on themselves and the people they care about and to seek support if they are experiencing the signs of gambling harm.
A survey from the Australian Gambling Research Centre found almost one in three survey participants signed up for a new online betting account during COVID-19 last year, with young men (aged 18-34 years) most likely to sign up for new online accounts.
With the gambling industry spending $271 million on advertising in Australia last year, ACT Minister for Gaming Shane Rattenbury said the 24-hour access to online betting websites and apps and evolving technologies has seen an increase on online gambling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“What might start as quick and easy entertainment online or a solution to financial pressure, can end up having serious consequences,” Minister Rattenbury said. “Excessive gambling can leave you in financial stress, feeling guilty and spending less time with the people you really care about.
“It’s important to recognise the signs of gambling harm, and Gambling Harm Awareness Week is an opportunity for people to check in with themselves or with loved ones to see if you or anyone you know is experiencing harm.”
ACT Gambling Support Service peer support worker, Markus Fischer, said his past experiences with gambling harm often left him feeling shame and remorse.
“I never thought of the consequences of gambling. It was fun entertainment and grew into something that affected every aspect of my life, my mental health, my work, and my relationships,” Mr Fischer said.
“In fact, gambling ambushed me, and I often felt shame, guilt and remorse. I have since realised I have choices – always did, always have. I am now a Peer Support worker and I share my story with people as this is about choices, education and starting conversations around low and moderate gambling harm and what it looks and feels like and how to seek support.
“This is about choice, experience, strength and hope and there is support and hope for anyone touched by gambling harm.”
As stated by Paul Baxter, Chair of the Gambling and Racing Commission
“The Commission recognises that the closure of gambling venues over the last few months will have affected people differently. The closure of venues has provided a helpful opportunity for some people to stop, reflect and break a cycle of gambling harm. As venues reopen it is important to think about the impacts gambling may have had for you and your family, and the steps you can take to strengthen your wellbeing into the future. gamblinghelponline.org.au and the ACT Gambling Support Service are confidential, free services that are here to help you.”
As stated by Paul Townsley, ACT Gambling Support Service
“There has been a slight upturn in returning clients impacted by isolation during COVID restrictions. As isolation impacts general mental health wellbeing in the broader population, we have seen an increase in co-relational behaviours such as cannabis use, and alcohol use coupled with associated increases in depression and anxiety within the Gambling support area.”
Canberrans are encouraged to know the signs of gambling harm, which can help people to stay safe and stay in control:
- Spending more time or money gambling than you wanted
- Having less money than you would like
- Having regrets after playing
- Losing focus at work or social events
- Trying to win back your losses
- Spending less time with people you care about
- Hiding how much you play from friends and family
- Playing after the fun stops
If gambling harm is impacting you, a friend, or a family member, you can find free confidential online support at gamblinghelponline.org.au or you can speak to a support person on 1800 858 858.
