Gambling harm: conversations, lived experience and support
Gambling harm can affect anyone, impacting relationships, wellbeing, finances and mental health. As part of Gambling Harm Awareness Week, Mornington Peninsula Shire has produced a three-part podcast series featuring expert insights, lived experience and practical information about support and recovery.
Whether you are concerned about your own gambling, supporting someone else, or simply want to learn more, these conversations provide valuable information, real stories and pathways to help.
About the series
While gambling is often viewed as an individual issue, its impacts can extend to families, workplaces and the broader community.
This podcast series explores:
- Gambling harm as a public health issue
- The lived experience of people affected by gambling harm
- Support services and pathways to recovery
- The growing impact of online gambling
- Ways communities can better understand and respond to gambling harm
Episode 1: The Issue
Guest: Simone McCarthy, Deakin University
Gambling harm affects individuals, families and communities in many ways. In this episode, Simone McCarthy discusses gambling harm as a public health issue, explores the social and health impacts of gambling, and examines the growing accessibility of online gambling.
Content warning: This podcast discusses gambling harm, mental health and suicide, including references to suicidal thoughts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Please take care when listening.
Episode 2: The Experience
Guest: Carolyn, Gambling Harm Lived Experience Expert
Carolyn shares her personal experience of gambling harm, reflecting on recovery, resilience and lessons learned along the way. Her story highlights the importance of reducing stigma and creating supportive environments for people affected by gambling harm.
Content warning: This podcast discusses gambling harm, mental health and suicide, including references to suicidal thoughts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Please take care when listening.
Episode 3: Getting Help and Solutions
Guest: Claire Emmanuel, Gambler's Help
This episode focuses on practical support and solutions. Claire discusses how to recognise when gambling may be causing harm, the support services available, and how to seek help for yourself or someone you care about.
Content warning: This podcast discusses gambling harm, mental health and suicide, including references to suicidal thoughts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Please take care when listening.
Support is available
If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, support is available.
Gambler's Help
Gambler's Help provides free, confidential and professional support for people experiencing gambling harm, as well as family members, friends and carers.
National Debt Hotline
The National Debt Hotline is a free government service that can help you if you're in financial trouble due to gambling.
BetStop
BetStop is the Australian Government’s National Self-Exclusion Register™. It allows you to block yourself from all online gambling providers licensed in Australia, for free.
Lifeline
If you are experiencing a personal crisis, having suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone you care about, Lifeline provides free and confidential crisis support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au.