Supporting people with gambling concerns during COVID-19 and beyond

Do you or your colleagues work with people who may have gambling concerns? Would you like to learn more about:

• how to screen for problem gambling
• initiating a conversation about gambling
• support services for people with gambling concerns?

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are yet to be fully known, but there are concerns that problem gambling could increase due to:

• a greater need for distraction to de-stress and manage anxiety
• more time, access and need for online gambling options
• a surge in activity when gambling venues reopen with a relaxing of restrictions.

As a result, it is crucial that we are prepared for a likely increase in people experiencing problems with their level of gambling. To do this, we need to be able to screen for it, know what to look for, feel comfortable in starting a conversation about it and know what supports are available.

Training in screening for problem gambling

Since 2017 the Queensland Government has funded Lives Lived Well to deliver face-to-face workshops and online training, to provide allied health professionals and community sector employees with the skills to better recognise and support people with gambling concerns. Research shows there is a high comorbidity among people with alcohol, drugs and mental health concerns, and problem gambling. The effectiveness of treatment for one problem can be jeopardised if comorbidities are not also identified and addressed.

In response to COVID-19, they are now offering this 90-minute workshop as a live webinar.

To register please go to their Eventbrite page.

If the time of these webinars does not suit, the workshop can also be completed online at a time of your choosing by visiting LLW’s online learning system https://liveslivedwell.docebosaas.com/lms/.