Gambling Support Network Launched

The province is rolling out a new Gambling Support Network and Take 5 awareness campaign.

The network expands on the existing problem gambling helpline. A new interactive website offers tools to support Nova Scotians concerned about gambling. Over the next few months, counselling through live chat and online forums moderated by clinicians will be added, and people will be able to sign up for motivational text messages. The website is designed to work well on mobile devices.

"Many people with gambling concerns do not seek support because of the stigma they face or they don't know what to expect from the service," said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine. "With the Gambling Support Network, we're providing support in more ways, and reducing the stigma so more people who need these services are comfortable using them.

"It's an important part of our mental health and addictions strategy, Together We Can."

Research shows that people are more likely to use a support service if it does not refer to them as problem gamblers. The new network does not use this label, and does not portray gamblers negatively.

The network's services are available 24/7 to gamblers and their families, friends and employers across Nova Scotia. All services are free and confidential. They are provided by clinical staff including registered social workers. McKesson Canada, which runs the province's 811 service, has been contracted to run the network.

"Everyone has different needs and comfort levels, so it's important to offer support for Nova Scotians with gambling concerns in different ways," Rachel Boehm, addictions and mental health program leader with Capital District Health Authority. "The online and phone services through the Gambling Support Network, combined with in-person counselling at our Addictions Services offices around the province, allow people to choose the option or combination of options that meets their needs."

The Take 5 campaign to raise awareness about the network includes television, newspaper and online ads, stickers on video lottery terminals, and posters in retail spaces. The campaign encourages people to take a five-minute break and contact the network through the website at http://gamblingsupportnetwork.ca or by calling 1-888-347-8888.

FOR BROADCAST ONLY:

The province is rolling out a new Gambling Support Network

and Take 5 awareness campaign.

The network expands on the existing problem gambling

helpline. A new interactive website offers tools to support

Nova Scotians concerned about gambling.

Over the next few months, counselling through live chat

and online forums moderated by clinicians will be added, and

people will be able to sign up for motivational text messages.

Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine says the

Gambling Support Network will provide support in more ways,

and reduce the stigma so that more people who need these

services are comfortable using them.

More information is available at Gambling Support Network

dot C-A.