Addressing Gambling Harm: Supporting Patients and Families in South Western Sydney
25 Nov 2025
Problem gambling can lead to financial difficulties, strain relationships, reduce work productivity, and negatively impact both physical and mental health. Young people are also at risk through online gaming, highlighting the broad reach of gambling-related harm.
The consequences extend beyond the individual, often affecting family members and carers. Health professionals play a key role in identifying and addressing gambling harm, and support is available for both those directly affected and their families.
How GPs Can Help
General practitioners can support patients by:
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Screening for gambling harm using tools such as the SWSPHN Gambling Harm Screening Tool.
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Referring patients and families to appropriate support services for counselling, financial advice, and ongoing care.
Additional resources are available through GambleAware, which offers guidance for health professionals on recognising gambling-related problems and supporting affected individuals.
South Western Sydney Primary Health Network encourages GPs, practice nurses, and practice managers to integrate screening and referral into routine care to reduce the impact of gambling harm on the community.
Source: Practice Pulse, South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, 26 November 2025
