This week, from October 20 to 26, 2023, marks the observance of **GambleAware Week** in New South Wales, an initiative aimed at raising awareness of the significant impact that gambling harm has on personal relationships. The campaign encourages open discussions about how to support individuals affected by gambling-related issues.
Gambling harm does not occur in isolation; it disrupts the fundamental trust and communication that are essential to healthy relationships. Issues such as financial distress, social disconnection, loneliness, and feelings of helplessness contribute to relationship breakdowns, isolation, and estrangement. Recent national research indicates that **one in six adults** in Australia is now at risk of experiencing gambling harm, which has rising implications for family wellbeing, financial stability, and intimate partner safety.
As the landscape of gambling continues to evolve, approximately **58% of all gambling** now takes place online. This shift means that the associated harms are increasingly experienced within the home, where the effects on relationships can be particularly severe.
Addressing the Issue Through a Relational Lens
Elisabeth Shaw, the CEO of **Relationships Australia NSW**, emphasized the importance of recognizing the relational aspects of gambling harm. “Every day, our counsellors and mediators see the strain that gambling harm places on relationships,” Ms Shaw stated. “Many individuals do not approach us specifically about gambling; rather, these issues often surface in discussions about communication, financial pressures, or stressors in their lives.”
The secrecy and conflicts that often accompany gambling can erode trust and connection, leaving families in distress. Ms Shaw added that while gambling harm affects people from diverse backgrounds, the pathway to recovery frequently begins with enhanced support and connection. “When families are involved in the recovery process, and their perspectives are valued, repair becomes possible,” she explained.
Ms Shaw called for a shift in how society addresses gambling harm, suggesting that conversations should focus on relationships rather than on feelings of shame.
Support Services Available
**Relationships Australia NSW** offers a range of services, including counselling, mediation, and family support, designed to help individuals navigate conflict, rebuild trust, and strengthen connections. These services are crucial for families affected by gambling, as they provide the necessary support to foster healing and understanding.
As GambleAware Week unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the serious implications of gambling harm on relationships, urging communities to engage in constructive conversations that prioritize connection and support.
