Who gambles and who develops problems?
A National Prevalence Study in 19991 estimated that as many as 94% of New Zealanders have gambled at some time in their lives. Correlation with problem gambling has been found with ethnic groups, socio-economic status, health and other addictions.
Pacific Island peoples problem gambling incidence may be six times higher than Pakeha, Maori may be three times higher than Pakeha, and Chinese and Indian may be twice or more than Pakeha.2
The majority of callers to problem gambling helpline services tend to favour playing gaming machines in pubs and clubs. The effects of someone’s problem gambling can impact dramatically on their friends and family.
What is problem gambling?
'Problem gambling' is the term used to define any gambling behaviour that compromises, disrupts or damages an individual’s self, family, or work. It is a pattern of behaviour that’s known to increase during times of stress and can lead to relationship problems, inattention at work, financial crises and even criminal activity. These problems can then intensify the original gambling behaviour. Problem gambling can be seen as a disorder and like many other disorders, there is a full spectrum of conditions. From mild problem gambling through to pathological gambling, the disorder is represented over a continuum.
Recognising the signs
Someone feeling depressed or stressed, drinking more alcohol, presenting with stomach upsets or an inability to concentrate may well have a gambling problem at the root of their issues. See the enclosed Card #1: 'Look after your health' and ‘How would you describe your life?’ compiled by Gambling Helpline Services, for consultation questions.
Pinpoint the extent of a patient or client’s problem gambling, or that of their friend/family member using the enclosed Cards #2 and #3 - 'Signs to watch out for' and 'Activities associated with problem gambling'.
Taking action
By framing problem gambling in the context of it being a health condition, patient defensiveness can be lessened and the likelihood of them seeking specialist professional treatment raised.
A full listing of problem gambling treatment providers is included in Research.
References:
1. "What Do We Know About Gambling and Problem Gambling in New Zealand" Report Number Seven of the New Zealand Gaming Survey, The Department of Internal Affairs, Max Wenden Abbott, June 2001.
2. "Brief Intervention for patients experiencing problem gambling, a manual for GPs, Practice Nurses & other Health Professionals", Dr Sean Sullivan of Goodfellow Unit, Dept of General Practice & Primary Health Care, Auckland School of Medicine, June 2000.
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