Before you begin You are here:HomeOur servicesList of servicesGambling Treatment ProgramBefore you begin It is recommended that you read these first two chapters from the book "Stop Gambling: A Self-Help Manual for Giving Up Gambling" (2001). This book was written by Simon Milton who established the Gambling Treatment Program and you will be provided with a number of chapters from this book during treatment. Chapter 1 - Self Knowledge Chapter 2 - Motivation Before you begin the program, it is a good idea to start thinking about the types of things that trigger your gambling or the situations that tend to result in a gambling episode. Below is a list of possible strategies that can help reduce the likelihood that you will gamble. Access to cash Destroying ATM card Not carrying around ATM card Canceling cash-out facility on credit card Asking a trusted person to keep money or monitor statements Arranging direct debit on bills, debts or pay by B-pay Planning ahead for pay days Access to venues Arrange to self-exclude from venues through your St Vincent’s Gambling Treatment Program clinician. Self-exclusion is a free and voluntary process by which you will be excluded from being able to attend a venue to gamble, or to gamble online, for a nominated period of time. Arrange self-exclusion with hotels and clubs directly, or via the Multi Venue Self Exclusion System (MVSE) on 1800 997766 Casino exclusion is available for yourself or a family member affected by gambling. Speak to casino staff in person, or call the Responsible Gambling Customer Liaison Officer: STAR Sydney (02) 97779000 Gambling online? Consider blocking software to prevent access to gambling sites (e.g. GamBan). Self-exclusions are available through each reputable betting platform under the “responsible gambling” section of their website. See https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/making-a-change/self-exclusion for more information and examples. Financial stress Get advice from a financial counsellor (Lifeline financial counselling (02) 9498 8805, Wesley financial counselling: 1300 827 638, or contact the gambling help line to find your local service on 1800 858 858) Use problem solving to systematically sort things out. Useful tools can be found on ASIC’s moneysmart website (https://moneysmart.gov.au) Gambling-related Activities e.g. drinking in pub where you usually gamble Avoiding these activities by changing routines and habits Arranging and scheduling alternative activities (e.g. meet at cafe) Stress & anxiety Practicing relaxation strategies (e.g. slow breathing or PMR) Improving lifestyle habits (e.g. diet and exercise) Using problem solving to help with the cause of the stress Considering seeking professional help if necessary. Low mood or boredom Using problem solving to work on possible causes Scheduling pleasant events Discussing difficulties with trusted friends or family Considering seeking professional help if necessary. Alcohol and/or drug use Cutting down or stopping use Drinking only in non-gambling venues (e.g. at home; in restaurant) Drinking only in company of non-gambling friends Considering seeking professional help if necessary