Dealing with the Dice: How Counselling Can Help with Problem Gambling in New Zealand – CCOB

Introduction: Why Counselling Matters for Kiwi Gamblers

Kia ora, New Zealand! Online gambling is a popular pastime in Aotearoa, offering a bit of fun and excitement from the comfort of your own home. However, it’s important to remember that gambling, whether it’s online pokies, sports betting, or casino games, can sometimes become a problem. When gambling starts to negatively impact your life – your finances, relationships, work, or mental health – it’s time to seek help. This is where counselling comes in. It’s a safe and supportive space where you can explore your gambling habits, understand the reasons behind them, and develop strategies to regain control. If you’re curious about exploring some online games in a safe and responsible way, you could always try this, but always remember to gamble responsibly.

Understanding Problem Gambling: Signs and Symptoms

Before we dive into counselling, let’s talk about what problem gambling looks like. It’s not just about how much money you spend; it’s about the impact gambling has on your life. Here are some common signs that you might have a problem:

Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you’ve lost by gambling more.
Preoccupation: Constantly thinking about gambling, planning your next bet, or reliving past gambling experiences.
Withdrawal: Feeling irritable, restless, or anxious when you try to stop gambling.
Lying: Hiding your gambling activities or the amount of money you’re spending from friends and family.
Financial Trouble: Gambling away money you need for essential expenses, borrowing money to gamble, or accumulating debt.
Relationship Problems: Gambling causing conflict with loved ones or damaging relationships.
Loss of Control: Feeling unable to control your gambling habits.

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, or someone you know, it’s a good idea to consider seeking professional help.

The Role of Counselling: What to Expect

Counselling for problem gambling provides a confidential and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your gambling behaviours and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Initial Assessment

The first step is usually an assessment. Your counsellor will ask questions about your gambling history, your motivations for gambling, the impact it’s having on your life, and any other relevant factors. This helps the counsellor understand your specific situation and tailor the therapy to your needs.

Understanding the Root Causes

Counselling helps you delve into the reasons behind your gambling. This might involve exploring underlying issues like stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, or past trauma. Sometimes, gambling is a way of coping with difficult emotions or escaping from problems. The counsellor will help you identify these triggers and develop healthier ways of managing them.

Developing Coping Strategies

A key part of counselling is learning practical strategies to manage your gambling urges and behaviours. This might include:

Setting Limits: Establishing strict limits on how much money and time you spend gambling.
Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding situations or environments that trigger your gambling urges.
Developing Alternative Activities: Finding alternative activities to occupy your time and energy, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time with loved ones.
Managing Finances: Learning how to manage your finances, create a budget, and avoid debt.
Relapse Prevention: Developing a plan to cope with potential relapses and prevent them from spiralling out of control.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a common and effective approach used in gambling counselling. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours related to gambling. For example, CBT can help you challenge irrational beliefs about winning, such as the idea that you can predict the outcome of a game or that you’re “due” to win. It helps you change your thinking and then your behaviours.

Support and Education

Counselling provides a supportive space to talk about your struggles and receive encouragement. Counsellors also provide education about problem gambling, its effects, and available resources. They can also help you connect with support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, where you can share your experiences with others who understand.

Finding a Counsellor in New Zealand

There are several ways to find a qualified counsellor in New Zealand who specializes in problem gambling:

Your GP (General Practitioner): Your doctor can provide a referral to a counsellor or mental health professional.
Mental Health Services: The Ministry of Health website has a directory of mental health services in your area.
Gambling Helpline: The Gambling Helpline (0800 654 655) offers free and confidential counselling and support.
Private Counsellors: You can search online for registered counsellors in your area who specialize in addiction or problem gambling.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): If you’re employed, your workplace may offer an EAP that provides counselling services.

When choosing a counsellor, consider their experience, qualifications, and whether you feel comfortable talking to them. It’s important to find someone you trust and feel supported by.

Conclusion: Taking the First Step Towards Recovery

Problem gambling can be a challenging issue, but recovery is possible. Counselling plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand their gambling behaviours, develop coping strategies, and regain control of their lives. If you’re struggling with problem gambling in New Zealand, remember that you’re not alone, and help is available. Seeking professional support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Take the first step towards recovery by reaching out to a counsellor, contacting the Gambling Helpline, or talking to your GP. With the right support and commitment, you can overcome problem gambling and build a healthier, happier life. Remember, it’s never too late to seek help and start on the path to recovery. Kia kaha!