People sharing their stories with problem gambling will make up a new gambling harm awareness campaign launched by the Palaszczuk Government today.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said the new gambling harm awareness campaign uses storytelling to break down the stigma associated with seeking help for problem gambling.
"Problem gambling doesn't discriminate; it can happen to anyone, from any walk of life, and hearing these stories humanises the issue," Minister Fentiman said.
Allen, Louise and David have told their story of 'When gambling took over...' to highlight the early warning signs and the help available.
"In a series of candid videos, Allen, David and Louise openly and bravely share their stories of how their gambling started to negatively affect their lives," Ms Fentiman said.
"They also tell us how they came to the decision to seek help, and how this decision changed their lives in more ways than they could imagine.
The Attorney-General said that in challenging the preconceptions, stereotypes and negative judgements of people who experience problems with gambling, we could help break down stigma and shame.
"Without the judgement of others, it is easier for people to seek help," Ms Fentiman said.
"They may also be more likely to approach those close to them, such as family and friends, which can also be an important pathway to changing gambling habits.
"As we see in all three stories, important but difficult conversations with loved ones played, and continue to play, a key role in their road to recovery.
"Gambling Help Queensland provides free, confidential and professional support to Queenslanders who want to change their gambling habits, as well as people concerned about the gambling of someone close to them.
"The Queensland Government recognises the valuable support Gambling Help services deliver and provides more than $7 million each year for counselling and support services," Minister Fentiman said.
"Specially-trained counsellors are available over the phone and online 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or in person by booking a session.
"People gamble for all sorts of reasons – I encourage you to listen to Allen, Louise and David's stories and know that if gambling has taken over for you, then help is available.
"In the words of David, 'to not seek help is to suffer'."
Watch Allen, Louise and David tell their stories and keep an eye out in licensed venues for campaign materials and posters.
Learn to spot the signs of problem gambling in yourself and those you care about by visiting the Gambling Help Queensland website.
To access Gambling Help Queensland services, call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelpqld.org.au
