Sharing and talking
If you’re worried about your gambling, the best thing you can do is talk to someone you know and trust. Your friends and whānau may already be worried that something is troubling you and may even know it's gambling.
Kōrero Cards
Starting conversations about gambling can be scary, but they're important if we want to restore balance to the gambler and their whānau/family.
These cards can be used as a guide to help you find the best way to talk about how gambling is affecting you and those you care about.
Use any of the themes or cards that work for you and your situation. Feel free to change words or use language that is appropriate.
Select the theme you'd like to view below:
Start with telling them how you’re feeling and what you want, or need from them to help.
You might find they’re relieved to know and are very understanding right from the start. Sometimes it can take a bit of time for the people who care about you to understand how gambling’s affected your life. That’s ok too, talk them through it.
If people offer you help and support, take them up on it. You may find ways of dealing with the problem or seeking help together.
Get some ideas for raising the topic with your friends and whānau from the examples below.
‘I was spending $20-$40 a week on the pokies but recently it’s been more and I’m getting a bit worried about our bills. I think it’s best if I just draw out what I need for the week so I’m not tempted and get you to look after my eftpos card for me.’
‘I think that my gambling might be a problem. It used to be a bit of fun but now I think about it heaps and it's starting to stress me out. I want to talk to someone about it. Can you come with me?’
How will friends and family react to my gambling?
You might find they’re relieved to know and are very understanding right from the start. Sometimes it can take a bit of time for the people who care about you to understand how gambling’s affected your life. That’s ok too, talk them through it.
If people offer you help and support, take them up on it. You may find ways of dealing with the problem or seeking help together.
How can I start a conversation about my gambling?
Get some ideas for raising the topic with your friends and whānau from the examples below.
‘I was spending $20-$40 a week on the pokies but recently it’s been more and I’m getting a bit worried about our bills. I think it’s best if I just draw out what I need for the week so I’m not tempted and get you to look after my eftpos card for me.’
‘I think that my gambling might be a problem. It used to be a bit of fun but now I think about it heaps and it's starting to stress me out. I want to talk to someone about it. Can you come with me?’
Other ways to kōrero
If you’re not quite ready to speak to a friend or whānau member, reach out to one of the confidential free support services below. You can do it via text, email or give them a call, whatever works for you, just know they’re here to help, no matter how big or small your concern or if your concern is for someone else:
Staying In Control
If you or someone you know is struggling to stay in control, these tips for safer gambling may help.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried one might be developing, we have a few great tips to bring it into line. Find a plan that works for you using our tips below, then share your plan with trusted whānau and friends to help you stay on track.
How much is too much to spend on gambling?
The amount you can safely spend on gambling comes down to your circumstances and what amount you’re able to lose, without it affecting your ability to pay for other things. For some people, even a few dollars may mean they (or others) have to go without weekly essentials. Ask yourself – is your gambling just for fun?
Staying In Control
If you or someone you know is struggling to stay in control, these tips for safer gambling may help.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem or you're worried one might be developing, we have a few great tips to bring it into line. Find a plan that works for you using our tips below, then share your plan with trusted whānau and friends to help you stay on track.
How much is too much to spend on gambling?
The amount you can safely spend on gambling comes down to your circumstances and what amount you’re able to lose, without it affecting your ability to pay for other things. For some people, even a few dollars may mean they (or others) have to go without weekly essentials. Ask yourself – is your gambling just for fun?