February Campaign – Gambling and Money Management
‘Five Ways to Break the Gambling Habit’
Our campaign for February focusses on gambling and money management and raises awareness of the impact gambling addiction can have.
Most people can gambling safely*. It can remain an enjoyable, social experience without becoming a problem. However, when a gambling addiction starts to form the consequences can be devastating.
Crucially, our community health information display for gambling and money management provides information on the signs to look out for if someone may be developing a gambling dependency, as well as tips and advice on ways individuals can break the gambling habit:
1) Share the problem
Speak to friends and family and never be afraid or embarrassed to ask for support. It may even be an option for them to handle money so the temptation to gamble is removed
2) Education
Research into gambling addiction to help understand what triggers a need to gamble
3) Change focus
Create a distraction from gambling; join a gym, make plans with friends or learn a new hobby
4) Have a budget
Work out how much money is left after important expenses such as bill payments are deducted. Missing payments can have serious financial consequences later on
5) Make a list
Writing down the negative effect gambling has had (for example arguing with family or friends), as well as ways the money spent on gambling could have been better used, will serve as a reminder if there is a temptation to gamble
Up to 590,000 adults in the UK might have a gambling problem.* The signs may not always show in the same way as other addictions, but the impact can be felt far beyond the individual.
Our monthly campaigns raise awareness of important issues, with a view to equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge to make healthy lifestyle choices. All of our community health information displays, including our February board, are completely free to loan.
Throughout February you will find our displays in libraries, colleges and workplaces across the West Midlands, including Shirley, Dickens Heath and Chelmsley Wood libraries, Cockshut Hill College and City of Wolverhampton College, Tudor Grange Academy and Employment Plus Nechells and Oldbury.
To make an enquiry or to request more information, get in touch with our community health information co-ordinator today who will be happy to assist you.
*gambleaware.co.uk, 2016