Addressing Gambling Harm: The Role of General Practitioners in New South Wales

The New South Wales Gambling Survey 2024 revealed that 21% of adults in the region reported experiencing harm from gambling, whether through their own activities or those of others. This harm encompasses a range of issues, including financial stress, psychological distress, relationship breakdowns, and poor physical health. Certain demographics, particularly regular gamblers, young men aged 18–24, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, are disproportionately affected.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

General practitioners (GPs) are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to gambling harm due to their regular contact with patients. Many individuals affected by gambling may present with symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and financial hardship, often without initially disclosing gambling as a contributing factor. Therefore, incorporating gambling harm screening into routine clinical practice is essential for early identification and intervention.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

To enhance their ability to address gambling harm, GPs can access tailored training and resources provided by the New South Wales Office of Responsible Gambling in partnership with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). This includes gambling harm awareness podcasts and webinars focused on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and young people. These initiatives aim to equip GPs with practical strategies for assessment, brief intervention, and referral, as well as to foster sensitive conversations about gambling.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

Gambling Help Online offers free and confidential support services across Australia for individuals affected by gambling, including families and carers. These services encompass counselling, financial advice, and peer support, with culturally safe options available for diverse communities. GPs are encouraged to refer patients to these resources, ensuring that those at risk of gambling harm receive the necessary support.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

GambleAware Week 2025, scheduled from October 20 to October 26, presents an opportunity for GPs to engage in conversations about gambling. This annual campaign encourages open discussions, challenges common myths, and promotes help-seeking behaviors. Health professionals are urged to reflect on their role in prevention and early intervention during this week, which may include sharing resources in waiting rooms or asking screening questions during consultations.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

While the initiatives to address gambling harm are generally well-received, some critics argue that more comprehensive measures are needed to tackle the root causes of gambling addiction. They emphasize the importance of systemic changes in gambling policies and regulations to effectively mitigate harm.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

Gambling harm is a significant public health issue affecting a wide range of demographics in New South Wales. By integrating gambling harm screening into their practices and utilizing available resources, GPs can play a crucial role in identifying and supporting patients at risk. The upcoming GambleAware Week serves as a timely reminder for health professionals to promote awareness and encourage help-seeking behaviors, ultimately making a meaningful difference in their communities.

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm

• “Key takeaways for GPs Gambling harm is a public health issue that affects patients across all demographics The NSW Gambling Survey 2024 highlights the scale and impact of gambling harm, with one in five adults in NSW harmed by gambling GPs are well placed to identify early warning signs and provide support Gambling Help Online services are free, confidential and easy to access Training and resources are available to help GPs feel confident discussing gambling with patients and referring them to appropriate services GambleAware Week 2025 (20–26 October) is an opportunity to promote awareness and encourage help-seeking By integrating gambling harm into routine care, GPs can make a meaningful difference to patients’ lives and communities across Australia.” — NSW Office of Responsible Gambling

Helping GPs recognise and respond to gambling harm