Gambling support workers have shared a warning for punters to keep their online habits in check during the prolonged time of isolation.
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Although there has not yet been a rise in numbers of those seeking assistance from the Wagga Family Support's gambling crisis team, case worker Julie McDermott fears trouble is on the horizon.
"I'm expecting an increase. More people at home means there's going to be a lot more temptation," Ms McDermott said.
"If people are feeling lonely, tired or upset with everything that's going on, it's going to be very tempting."
According to the latest snapshot of gambling data released by the NSW government, in the three months to November 30 last year, punters spent up to $4,626,081.58 on 414 machines across six clubs in the Wagga LGA.
Meanwhile during the same period, a further $6,078,856.66 was burnt through on 342 machines in 19 hotels around the LGA.
While the temptation to while away hours on the pokies may have evaporated overnight with the closure of clubs and pubs, the temptation to over gamble remains.
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In days gone by the home was safe from gambling distractions, but access to the internet has rendered that safezone moot. Meanwhile, online giants have developed overseas, which are not under the purview of Australian laws.
"Online gambling opportunities will push that they are there, and not all of them are Australian so they're not all regulated by Australian laws," Ms McDermott explained.
"It's important to know though that in this time we might be physically isolated but this is not something you have to go through alone. That's not something you have to do in isolation."
For those that may be struggling to keep their gambling under control, Ms McDermott recommends shifting perspectives.
"At its best, gambling is only meant to be a paid form of entertainment, that means it's something you've budgetted for each month," she said.
"If it's becoming more than that, look at what's driving the need and see whether you can fulfill that need in another way.
"You might have a lot of spare time on your hands, so pick up that book you've always meant to read but never got around to. Watch the movie you're always wanting to see.
"Ask yourself what do you really want out of life and is gambling going to get that for you?"
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To navigate the expected rise in crisis gambling, Ms McDermott and the team at Wagga Family Support have introduced additional strategies to help people reach out.
"Our doors are still open, we're still having face-to-face appointments, we're still offering online support. The only difference is we're calling ahead to see if they client is feeling well, if not, we'll do the session over the phone," she said.
"We know these are unusual times, so we're sharing a gambling help tip on our Facebook once a week."
Ms McDermott recommends reaching out to the Family Support offices, or contact the 24 hour gambling help service via phone or online.
For a friend or family member who suspects their loved one might be struggling with a gambling addiction, Ms McDermott said it is best to approach the subject with caution and care.
"It can be a touchy subject, but call them. Make contact with them and say, 'I've noticed you might be struggling, why don't you consider getting some support'," she said.
"You can make an appointment with us to to talk through the kinds of resources we might have to assist you in helping others."