The NSW government has released a campaign to encourage people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to recognise gambling harm and to seek help.
If you or someone you love is affected by gambling, call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential help.
The ‘Number that Changed My Life’ awareness campaign uses insights gained from research and extensive consultation with gambling counsellors who work with multicultural clients.
While migrant Australians are less likely to participate in gambling than the overall population, those who gamble are more likely to experience problems, the NSW government said.
“Gambling is an issue for people from all walks of life, however, research shows that people from a migrant background face different issues and significant barriers in seeking help.” the Office of Responsible Gambling’s director, Natalie Wright, said.
“When someone from a culturally diverse background has a problem with gambling, they often don’t recognise that it’s an issue. Even when they do, shame and stigma can stop them from getting help. It’s often friends and family who initiate help seeking.”
While tailored for each community, the campaign also draws on insights that are prevalent across all communities.
Common across cultures, the significant stigma attached to excessive gambling is a major barrier to seeking help, the NSW government said.
Recognising that focusing on the negative consequences may further propel denial and avoidance, the campaign highlights success stories to build hope and encourage the audience to seek help, reaffirming that seeking help can change their lives.
Resources have been developed to support the gambler as well as their family and friends, recognising the collective nature of many cultures. This dual approach has been designed to break down stigma and foster a supportive environment that encourages help seeking.
“Gambling harm doesn’t just affect the individual, it also impacts their loved ones” Wright said.
“This tailored and targeted initiative will help people from diverse backgrounds to recognise when gambling might be a problem and seek help, whether for themselves or for someone they love.
“There is no shame in recognising that you, or someone you love, may be gambling excessively and need help. It shows strength. Free, confidential support is available in your language. The counsellors aren’t there to judge, they’re there to help.”
Bespoke campaign creative has been developed for the Chinese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Korean and Indian communities. The campaign will air on all media channels including ethnic print, radio, TV, digital, online video and OOH (out of home), and will be supported by community engagement initiatives.
Information support materials are available at www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au
Featured image source: www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au
