Responsible Gaming
Casino games illuminate a spark of joy within the heart of most Kiwis, and they find a thrilling source of leisure. Although, behind the shoulder of this festive fun, there always lies a shadow, as for some, this festive enjoyment may turn into an uncontrollable addiction. Think back to 1992, when our provincial government reaped a monster NZ$3.82 billion from operating lotteries, casinos, pokie machines, and other non-casino slots. Fast forward to sixteen years, and your eyes won't believe it, that figure had increased to an astronomical NZ$19.15 billion. Now, as you sit reading this today, safe to say that figure which had left us winded has gone stratospherically higher. Now, buckle up, because the ride's not finished yet. When you combine with the staggering amount of revenue being made by offshore internet casino operations (a lot of them are controlling their operations from a remote reserve outside the successful city of Tauranga in New Zealand), the total amount is staggering. It is this uplifting but frightening reality of our times.
While the allure of a flutter is bound to give a thrill rush to all but the most stoic among us, there are occasions when it becomes an addictive habit that can leave long-term impacts on an individual's financial condition, mental well-being, and overall lifestyle. In New Zealand, if you're beginning to experience the ripple effects of your gambling as strained relationships, money worries, trouble clearing mental space for anything else in life or any other stressful issues, this is your cue to seek the help you require. Gambling, in modest doses, can be an enjoyable distraction. But then there's a darker side waiting in the shadows of flashing lights and thrill of victory. For others, it can turn into an addiction that not only drains one's hard-earned savings but can also lead to emotional distress. So, if you or the one you know is exhibiting signs of unwholesome gambling habits, it's important not to turn a blind eye to these signs. Don't let it reach the stage where the downs overpower the highs - reach out, get support, and regain control of your life. It's never too late to change.
Dr Weiner, highly regarded and fully accredited psychologist, dedicates his life to treating addiction passionately. He is proudly the head of the Linden Oaks Behavioural Health staff in Naperville, IL, as Director of Addiction Services. With a big heart full of compassion, Dr Weiner applies his skilled expertise to change the lives of so many, demonstrating his dedication along New Zealand's gorgeous scenery.
If you've caught yourself slipping into bad habits, or are worried about a family member or partner who might be, you need to know the signs. Get in charge by doing things to reclaim control over your behaviour.
What is problem gambling?
Problem gambler doesn't always mean someone who's experienced a run of unlucky losses. Likewise, a person who's ridden a wave of fortune, accumulating a considerable fortune, is no exception to problem gambling. Problem gambling has nothing to do with the euphoric victories or dismal losses. Rather, it's a matter of mental health that runs a lot deeper than the surface level of winnings and losses. It is as whimsical as the spin of the dice, sweeping you up in its whirlpool of emotion and potentially leaving you plunged in an abyss of despair or ecstasy. It is a challenge, a struggle many New Zealanders face daily, hidden behind the neon glow of the casino or the lonely flash of a computer game. It's worth remembering, though, that whether or not the dice roll your way, problem gambling is a battle that will have to be fought, ultimately requiring more than chance to overcome.
The hook of problem gambling has the potential to turn one's life around. When the odds take over, they begin to occupy every waking moment. This all-consuming preoccupation with the roll of a dice or the spin of a wheel can start to push out the meaningful elements of your life - your career, your education, and even your vibrant social life. The impact can reach deep and personal, straining the bonds of friendship and love in your marriage or love relationship. It can even lay siege to your hard-earned reputation, leaving its mark on what others think of you. At its worst, it even has the capacity to shatter the close-knit fabric of family and friends, Best to souring rifts and dissensions.
The destructive grip of problem gambling is able to bewilder the beautiful hues of life. To the New Zealand problem gambler, the radiant allure of chips, dice, and the hypnotic spin of slot wheels takes center stage, casting a suffocating shadow over truly important things in life. These truly important elements, robbed of attention and care they so rightfully deserve, become eroded and gradually lose their strength as they're pushed into the dark shadows.
The ups and downs of winning and losing at the casino can create a right old tempest in the temper of a problem gambler, which can lead them to lose their job and fights erupting between their family and friends back here in good old New Zealand. Imagine a desperate gambler's heart rate, highs far too high, lows crashingly low. Imagine then, these Kiwi problem gamblers spending so much cash that they could not only lose their trusty old ute or the homely family home, but also the financial safety net they've toiled so hard to establish. And the pitiful final blow? Their marital heaven could be torn apart from them before their eyes.
Determining problem gambling on a basis of numbers
From the heart of a recent study of the problem of problem gambling, we learn that approximately 3% of New Zealand's adults are experiencing problem gambling, a shocking statistic that spans the gamut from moderate to severe. The study goes on to find that an astonishing approximately 70% of New Zealand's adults have dabbled in gambling, setting a rather alarming precedent in our beautiful Kiwi country.
To place those figures in context in terms of us, picture this: Stats NZ reports that there are roughly 26.6 million Kiwis who have passed their 20th birthday (age of majority, for the sake of it, ranges from 18 to 19, depending on where you live. And for statistical analysis, Stats NZ typically groups 15-19-year-olds into one group in one snapshot). For the purpose of clarity, we will take the age of 20 as our benchmark. If we consider the aspect that 70% of New Zealand's adults have given the betting wheel a try, we are actually considering a staggering 18.6 million Kiwis. Now comes the catch: If 3% of the thrill-junkies fall victim to problem gambling snagging issues, then it accounts for some 500,000 souls in troubled waters. That, people, graphically illustrates the magnitude of the issue at hand.
Does that imply half a million Kiwis have a gambling problem? Not exactly. 'Affected by problem gambling' includes individuals who have never even placed a bet. That is because the ripple effects of gambling extend beyond the individual playing their chances; it sends shockwaves through their social circle, whānau, and workplace. Basically, it only takes one person to have a gambling problem to reach out and affect the lives of two, three, five, even possibly 10 people, who themselves might only very occasionally gamble, or not at all.
Signs of pathological gambling behavior
There is nothing wrong with a casino night out. Whether it's Skycity Casino in Auckland, Christchurch Casino, or one of the other land-based casinos dotted around our beautiful country, or even an internet casino, a little bit of gambling can add some spice to life. But if you're having trouble prising yourself away from the flashing lights of the gaming area or the siren call of an online casino, this is something you should be worried about.
Options for individuals with issues with gambling
When you are fighting the shady monster that is gambling trouble, you will be surprised to learn that online casinos are much more capable of assisting you compared to their NZ land-based counterparts. You see, apart from a barely perceptible responsible gambling center lingering just beyond the doorstep, our neighborhood bricks-and-mortar casinos themselves often short their duty of care for problem gamblers. They have these foolproof systems, they claim, where you submit your name and face shot on a list, and they supposedly exclude you from entering. But rumors abound that these systems are far from perfect.
If you discover that the charm of the pokie is simply too strong, either at your local club or through the internet, you need to take a step back and look again. The inability to stay away from the games even when it's causing you harm is a sign that you need to hold back and consider. It's important to stay up to date on present bonus offers but never lose sight of gaming responsibly. Keep yourself aware of New Zealand local laws, use of currency, and rules of local government agencies pertaining to gaming. Your well-being is paramount.
In the vast expanse of cyberspace, online casinos are a blessing for problem gamblers, all due to technological capabilities. When you're immersed in the thrilling environment of a Kiwi internet casino, remember that there are numerous resources at your disposal to help with problem gambling. The majesty of these pages is that they are not only a page to bet, but also a haven of support for those who could be fighting with the ardor of the game. So worry not, as in the long white cloud country, you're never by your lonesome on your journey to responsible gaming. Furthermore, because of the frequently updated bonuses, you can play more without being broke.
The gambler's fallacy
Ever sat next to a Kiwi punter in a casino loudly declaring that triumph must be just about to happen, after a run of ill fortune? Or perhaps, you've been beside the roulette wheel, the ball seemingly playing games with you, grumbling to yourself that fortune must smile on you at any second. Maybe, maybe, you've been the one to say it.
In the mystical and sometimes surprisingly bewildering world of chance, there's a concept that the seemingly random outcome somehow changes into something more easily foreseen based on what has occurred previously:
Whether this ever occurred or not. This fascinating notion, dear readers, is endearingly known as the gambler's fallacy - a little piece of Kiwi legend as rich as a classic pavlova.
Imagine this: You've been dutifully wagering your dollars on black when it comes to spinning the roulette wheel, but fate's hand has been striking red on the wheel seven consecutive times. If you're an individual with a gambling problem, chances are you're fascinated by the idea that a large wager for black is your ticket to redemption. It's time Lady Luck smiled in your direction, isn't it? Unfortunately, this line of thinking is flawed. The roulette wheel plays no favorites and holds no grudge, your chances of hitting black are as probable as the chances of pointing to red. The preceding seven red outcomes will not make a difference, the unpredictability of the game is what it is. Thinking on such a lopsided belief system is a trap that most players fall into unconsciously. But in reality, the gambler's fallacy is just that—a fallacy.
The thrill at times that accompanies a flutter can irrefutably add a pinch of spice to your gaming adventures. Yet, if you find yourself constantly under the domination of online pokies, wagering heavy amounts in the keen hope of a pendulum shift back to good luck, the unwanted intrusion of a gambling problem may well be insidiously invading your existence.
Looking for help with your gambling problem
If you're having trouble with the admission that you may be battling a gambling problem, or perhaps, you're aware of someone close to you who is in need, it's completely necessary that you realize you're not alone - specialist assistance is readily available through plenty of New Zealand regional and national organizations. These groups toss a lifeline of care, guiding you through the storm in your hour of need, throwing a ray of light on to a path of healing.
The New Zealand Drug Foundation is a good starting point. Remember, to the addicted, the pokies are as addictive as a drug. This nationwide organization that campaigns against addiction can place you on a road to recovery. You can reach them on www.drugfoundation.org.nz. Remember, it's a slippery slope – gambling can become a harmless punt and end up a devastating dependency, just like with drugs.
For those who are battling the suffering of gambling issues, Gamblers Anonymous has a great sanctuary where you can share and grapple with your dilemmas. You're encouraged to go to more regarding this great service at www.gamblersanonymous.org, where a supportive community awaits to provide you with an ear and a helping hand in your battle against problem gambling.
Head on over to www.playsmart.co.nz – a goldmine for every gamer out there in beautiful Aotearoa (New Zealand). Dig through mounds of information at www.playsmart.co.nz, where you'll learn all the unknowns about your favorite games. And don't forget, when the excitement of gaming loses its edge and you start sensing the odd shadow of a gambling issue, assistance lies just a click away. This is not just a platform – consider it a faithful companion, by your side for better or worse.
Tormented by the grasp of gambling addiction? New Zealand offers a helping hand in the form of numerous local support centers committed to helping individuals struggle with this issue. For instance, the kiwi Problem Gambling Helpline in Wellington opens its virtual doors for all our countrymen and women. You can reach them at 0800 654 655, [email protected], or toll-free at 0800 664 262. Stay there, help is only a phone call away!
Hello, nice people of Tauranga! If you or the person you love need the assistance of a helping hand through gambling issues, Gamblers Anonymous Tauranga is near. Just reach and dial (213)386-8789 or if you happen to be in the area of Tauranga, dial us at (514)484-6666. You don't have to struggle with this alone, we are here, just a telephone call away. We typically gather in the comfort of Our Lady of Fatima Church, 875 Marcil Laurin, St-Laurent, Tauranga. Come join us, we're a family!
We wholeheartedly suggest that you take a bite out of these study resources, even if you do not think of yourself as having a gaming issue. They provide you with real golden nuggets of guidance on responsible gaming, so that you will experience the excitement of online casino games the way they should be played. So, let the wheel of knowledge spin roulette and soak in informative tips that allow you to caper through the online pages in a manner that is in reverence to each flutter of the heart while enjoying this exhilarating recreation.