Supporting your loved ones

The signs of gambling harm among current and former serving veterans are the same as those who may be seen among your other family and friends.

It takes courage and commitment for someone to acknowledge that they’re struggling with gambling and to seek help. You can support your loved ones by:

• Helping them to develop and stick to a game plan, such as setting a time limit on how long they want to gamble or how much they want to bet.
• Encouraging them to stand firm and ignore peer pressure from their mates who are betting big and egging them on.
• Suggesting other activities to help keep the money and time spent on gambling in check.
• Providing information on the different strategies and tools available to help manage gambling, such as protection tools in betting apps or self-exclusion.
• Reaching out to GambleAware or veteran-specific services for additional support. 
  

Help is available 

There are many services available if you, your family or friends need to talk to someone about problems with gambling. 

• GambleAware is a free and confidential service that can support veterans who gamble and their families. To arrange a face-to-face appointment with a counsellor in your local area call GambleAware 1800 858 858. If you prefer to chat online, counsellors are available 24/7 at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• RSL LifeCare Veteran Services focus on helping veterans and their families by providing support and wellbeing programs that are veteran-centric and recovery focused. For more information call 1300 232 564 or visit www.rsllifecare.org.au/veteran-services
• RSL NSW is a social connection organisation available to veterans and their families. For more information call (02) 9264 8188 or visit www.rslnsw.org.au
• Open Arms is Australia’s leading provider of mental health assessment and counselling for Australian veterans and their families. For counselling and support services, call 1800 011 046 or visit www.openarms.gov.au
• Safe Zone Support is a free and anonymous 24/7 counselling line for all current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force personnel, veterans and their families. For more information call 1800 142 072 or visit www.openarms.gov.au/safe-zone
• Bravery Trust is a national military charity which provides current and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force with financial aid, financial education and financial counselling. For more information call 1800 272 837 or visit www.braverytrust.org.au
• Defence Member and Family Helpline is a 24/7 helpline for Defence families seeking support, information or connection with their community. For more information call 1800 624 608 or visit www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families