While referral to a specialist problem gambling treatment provider is the preferred option, General Practitioners (GPs) and other community professionals are in a unique position to notice the effects of problem gambling on a patient or client. In addition, people experiencing problem gambling tend to feel more comfortable talking to their GP about this issue, in the context of their health¹. This means that early detection is possible, which in turn can ultimately prevent problem gambling behaviour escalating.

Referral organisations and specialist treatment providers

There are a number of dedicated specialist treatment providers available throughout the country to help problem gamblers. These groups offer varying levels of assistance, including helplines, face-to-face counselling services, information about problem gambling as well as daily and/or on-going support. All specialist treatment providers offer their services free of charge and with complete confidentiality.

General Practitioner and community professional intervention

While it is always appropriate in the first instance to refer a patient or client to a helpline or treatment provider, as a GP or other community professional you and your client may prefer to begin the treatment. This may especially be the case if you are in a rural area since most specialist treatment providers are located in main centres.¹

This section gives you basic guidance in the form of 'A few brief GP interventions for problem gambling', as detailed by Sean Sullivan, PhD¹ (available as a laminated card for quick reference).

Additional needs of Maori problem gamblers

Specialist groups have been set up to help Maori problem gamblers, some with spiritual counselling and options of group and/or whanau counselling, as well as traditional healers and kaumatua advisors. The services are offered in the context of Maori culture.

SKYCITY problem gambling intervention

SKYCITY provides support for problem gamblers - and the families and friends of problem gamblers - through its Host Responsibility programme. This includes Self-Identified Exclusion for two years and staff who are trained to recognise and help those showing signs of being 'at risk' from problem gambling.

Reference

1. Sullivan S., Pathological Gambling in New Zealand, The Role of the GP, New Ethicals Journal, August 2000.

Training in intervention