Kia Ora, New Zealand! Let’s Talk About Gambling and Your Life

Hey there, fellow Kiwis! Gambling can be a bit of fun, a way to add some excitement to your day, or even a social activity. Whether you’re spinning the reels online, having a punt on the All Blacks, or enjoying a game of poker with your mates, it’s all good as long as it stays that way – fun. But sometimes, things can start to shift. That’s why it’s super important to recognise when gambling might be starting to affect your work or your relationships. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t let a dodgy hamstring stop you from enjoying a game of touch, right? Well, you shouldn’t let gambling problems sideline you from the important things in life either. If you’re new to the world of online casinos, it’s helpful to know where to find reputable options, such as the ones reviewed at https://casinonational.co.nz/. But, even with trustworthy sites, it’s crucial to keep an eye on how your gambling habits are impacting your life.

The Red Flags: When Gambling Starts to Take Over

So, how do you know if your gambling is becoming a bit of a monster? Here are some red flags to watch out for, broken down into areas of your life:

Work Woes: Is Your Job Suffering?

• Absenteeism: Are you calling in sick more often than usual? Are you late for work because you were up late gambling or trying to recoup losses?
• Decreased Productivity: Are you struggling to concentrate on your tasks? Is your work quality slipping? Are you spending work time gambling instead of working?
• Financial Strain: Are you borrowing money from colleagues or using your work income to gamble? Have you started to take out payday loans to cover your losses?
• Job Loss Risk: Are you facing disciplinary action or the risk of losing your job because of your gambling behaviour?

Relationship Ripples: Is Your Social Life Affected?

• Secrecy: Are you hiding your gambling from your partner, family, or friends? Do you lie about how much you’re spending or the time you’re dedicating to it?
• Arguments: Are you arguing more frequently with loved ones about money, time, or your gambling habits?
• Withdrawal: Are you pulling away from social activities and spending less time with the people you care about? Do you find yourself prioritising gambling over family time, or dates with friends?
• Financial Conflicts: Are your gambling debts causing tension and conflict within your relationships? Are you using money that was meant for bills or household expenses?

Financial Fallout: The Money Matters

• Unexplained Spending: Are you unable to account for where your money is going? Do you have less money than you think you should?
• Debt Accumulation: Are you racking up credit card debt, taking out loans, or borrowing money from friends and family to gamble?
• Neglecting Bills: Are you falling behind on your rent, mortgage payments, or other essential bills because of gambling?
• Selling Possessions: Have you started selling your belongings to fund your gambling?

Taking Action: What You Can Do

If you’ve noticed some of these red flags popping up in your life, don’t panic! The first step is acknowledging the problem. Here’s what you can do:

Talk About It: Open Up and Seek Support

Talking to someone you trust is a massive step. This could be a partner, family member, friend, or a professional counsellor. Sharing your struggles can help you feel less alone and give you a different perspective. Don’t be afraid to reach out – there are people who care and want to help.

Seek Professional Help: Experts Are There for You

Consider reaching out to a gambling helpline or a therapist specializing in addiction. They can provide support, guidance, and strategies to help you manage your gambling behaviour. In New Zealand, you can find resources through the Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand or the Gambling Helpline (0800 654 655).

Set Limits: Take Control of Your Gambling

If you’re not ready to stop gambling completely, set strict limits for yourself. This includes:

• Budgeting: Decide how much money you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Don’t chase losses.
• Time Limits: Set a time limit for how long you’ll gamble and stick to it. Use timers.
• Self-Exclusion: Consider self-exclusion options offered by online casinos or gambling venues. This will prevent you from accessing them for a set period.

Find Alternative Activities: Fill the Void

Gambling often fills a void. Find other activities to occupy your time and energy. This could be hobbies, exercise, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing new interests. The more you diversify your life, the less appealing excessive gambling will become.

Wrapping It Up: Your Wellbeing Matters

Look, we all deserve to enjoy life, and that includes having a bit of fun. But it’s crucial to make sure that fun doesn’t turn into something that negatively impacts your work, relationships, or finances. By recognising the signs early and taking action, you can regain control and ensure that gambling remains a harmless pastime, not a monster. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available. Take care of yourselves, and remember to enjoy the good things in life, eh?