Kiwi Gamblers: Sharpen Your Game by Spotting and Sidestepping Triggers

Why This Matters to You, Mate

Alright, you seasoned players! Let’s be honest, we all love the thrill of a good punt. Whether it’s the spin of the pokies, the turn of a card, or the anticipation of a win, there’s a buzz that keeps us coming back for more. But for those of us who enjoy a regular flutter, it’s crucial to understand what can push us from a bit of fun to something more. That’s where understanding gambling triggers comes in. Knowing your personal triggers is like having a secret weapon, helping you stay in control and keep the experience enjoyable. It’s about ensuring your favourite pastime, like exploring different playing options, remains a positive one. This article is all about helping you identify those triggers and giving you some practical tips to navigate them like a pro.

What Exactly Are Gambling Triggers?

Think of triggers as the things, people, places, or even feelings that can set off a chain reaction, leading to increased gambling activity. They’re the subtle cues that can nudge you towards a bet, even when you weren’t initially planning to gamble. These triggers are highly personal, and what sets one person off might not affect another. They can be internal, like a feeling of boredom or stress, or external, such as seeing a casino advertisement or receiving a bonus offer.

Common Types of Triggers

• Emotional Triggers: These are feelings like stress, anxiety, loneliness, boredom, or even excitement. When you’re feeling down, a quick pokies session might seem like a temporary escape. Conversely, a winning streak can create a false sense of invincibility, leading to riskier bets.
• Environmental Triggers: These are the places, people, or situations that remind you of gambling. This could be a specific casino, a friend who always wants to play, or even a particular online gambling site.
• Social Triggers: Pressure from friends or family to gamble, or simply the social environment of a casino, can be powerful triggers. The “mate-ship” and camaraderie can sometimes blur the lines of responsible gambling.
• Financial Triggers: Unexpected windfalls, like a bonus at work or a tax refund, can make you feel more flush and inclined to gamble. Conversely, financial worries can also trigger a desire to win back lost money, leading to a dangerous cycle.
• Time-Based Triggers: Certain times of the day, week, or year might be associated with gambling. Perhaps you always play the pokies on a Friday night, or you tend to gamble more during holidays.

Identifying Your Personal Triggers: A Bit of Self-Reflection

The first step in managing your triggers is to identify them. This takes a bit of self-reflection, but it’s well worth the effort. Here’s how you can do it:

Keep a Gambling Diary

For a week or two, track your gambling activities. Note down:

• What you gambled on: Pokies, sports betting, table games, etc.
• When and where you gambled: Time of day, location (online, casino, etc.).
• Who you were with: Were you alone, with friends, or family?
• How you were feeling: Happy, sad, stressed, bored?
• What triggered the gambling: Did you see an ad, receive a bonus, or feel a particular emotion?
• How much you spent: This is crucial for understanding your financial patterns.

Reflect on Past Experiences

Think back to times when you felt you lost control of your gambling. What were the circumstances? What were you feeling? Were there any specific events or situations that seemed to precede the increased gambling activity?

Talk to Someone You Trust

Sometimes, it’s hard to see our own patterns. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or even a therapist. They might be able to offer insights into your triggers that you haven’t considered.

Strategies for Avoiding Your Triggers

Once you’ve identified your triggers, the next step is to develop strategies to avoid them. Here are some practical tips:

Create a Gambling Plan

Before you start gambling, set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much time you’ll spend gambling and what games you’ll play. Having a plan helps you stay in control and avoid impulsive decisions.

Set Time Limits

Decide in advance how long you’ll gamble for and set a timer. When the timer goes off, stop, no matter what. This prevents you from getting caught up in the moment.

Use Self-Exclusion Tools

Most online casinos and gambling platforms offer self-exclusion options. This allows you to block yourself from accessing their services for a set period. Consider using this if you find it difficult to control your gambling.

Avoid Temptation

If certain places or people trigger you, avoid them. If you know you’re prone to gambling when you’re bored or stressed, find alternative activities to fill your time, like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

Manage Your Finances

Separate your gambling funds from your everyday finances. Use a separate bank account or set a strict budget for gambling. Avoid using credit cards or borrowing money to gamble.

Seek Support

If you’re struggling to control your gambling, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. There are many resources available in New Zealand, including:

• Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655
• Problem Gambling Foundation: Offers counselling and support services.
• Your GP: Can provide referrals to therapists and other mental health professionals.

Staying in the Game: A Summary and Some Kiwi Tips

Understanding and managing your gambling triggers is a vital part of responsible gambling. By identifying your personal triggers, creating a plan, and using available resources, you can enjoy a healthier and more sustainable relationship with gambling. Remember, it’s about having fun and keeping things in perspective.

Practical Recommendations for Kiwis

• Embrace the “mate” mentality, but set boundaries: Enjoy the social aspect of gambling, but don’t let peer pressure influence your decisions.
• Know your limits: Set clear financial and time limits before you start.
• Take breaks: Step away from the game regularly to clear your head.
• Celebrate wins, but don’t chase losses: Enjoy your wins, but don’t try to win back what you’ve lost.
• Utilise local resources: The Gambling Helpline and Problem Gambling Foundation are excellent resources for support and information.

By following these tips, you can stay in control and keep your gambling experience a positive one. Kia kaha, and happy gaming!