A PROMINENT Limestone Coast counselling service has aired concerns over the looming reopening of gaming rooms across the state.
From Monday, gaming rooms in South Australian venues will be allowed to reopen, while Keno, TAB and bingo is also allowed.
Premier Steven Marshall announced further easing of density requirements in venues from Monday, now one person per two square metres with no cap, opening up increased opportunities for the region’s business sector.
With COVID-19 restrictions forcing the closure of gaming rooms since March 22, Lifeline South East financial counsellors and gambling support workers Sonia Dickeson and Bronwyn Martin both harbour concerns over a potential spike in gambling-related issues from next week.
Ms Dickeson said the change could reignite urges for recovered gamblers which may have subsided during the COVID-19 isolation period.
“It could be overwhelming for people if they were previous gamblers to suddenly return to a gaming venue,” she said.
Speaking with clients on the issue, Ms Martin said there was mixed feedback regarding how people felt having the option to enter gaming venues again.
“A few of my clients have said they were quite nervous about having the option again,” she said.
“I think there is and will be a lot of anxiety surrounding pokies and gaming areas once they reopen.”
Ms Martin said since venues had been closed, some people may have become more susceptible to online gambling.
“People have to take into consideration, online gambling is available 24/7 and is easily accessible,” she said, adding additional COVID-19 stimulus payments could also potentially fuel gambling habits.
“I think people are looking at ways to distract themselves or cope from the stress created by the current climate.”
Ms Dickeson urging people to reach out if they were concerned about their own behaviour, or that of a friend or loved one, stating Lifeline was ready to help.
She said there were signs for people to look for to identify a gambling problem.
“Some could include spending more money than normal, more time gambling and less with family, friends or activities, concealing their behaviour and making up excuses,” she said.
“There could be people out there who may be turning to gambling during this time who have not before.
“We want to make sure people know that our services are here and we are here to help people.”
Ms Dickeson said time away from venues, forced by the COVID-19 restrictions, could have helped some problem gamblers overcome their addictions.
“I hope the abstinence of venues not being open could have provided some time for people to reflect and think,” she said.
“They may have been able to spend more time with family and have realised how much time gambling was consuming.
“I am hoping the restrictions have also brought a lot of benefits as well and freed people from need to constantly gamble.
“If there are people out there which wants to continue down a positive path, we are here to help them do that too.”
HELP IS AVAILABLE
• The free Limestone Coast Regional Gambling Help Service at Lifeline South East can be accessed by emailing reception@ lifelinese.com.au or phoning 8723 2299. The service offers therapeutic and financial counselling, collaborated referrals to the SA Intensive Gambling Help Service and general gambling-related advice. The office is open from 8.30am to 5pm Monday to Thursday for appointments.
• Alternatively people can contact the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858.
Visit gambling helponline.org.au for more information, self-help resources or to speak with a counsellor online.
