‘I was addicted to gambling at 18, now I’m helping other women recover’

I’m proud to say now that I’ve not touched a poker machine in years. I’m not proud to say, however, that the guilt, fear and shame that surrounds this industry for women remains.

It took me several years to come to the point where I’ve realised that I can do something to change it. And I am. Together, with a group of committed and passionate women, we’ve created The Untangle Project (@theuntangleprojectaus). The Project is a safe non-judgemental space for women who are experiencing the negative impacts of gambling harm, whether that be directly or supporting someone else who is.

We’re in the process of making plans to formally launch our work, which will include a documentary about how gambling is affecting women, a book of the stories of women who have contacted us seeking help, and a referral point for women who have contacted us seeking help.

This industry is a juggernaut, and gambling is so often portrayed as a male problem. That’s not the case – women just aren’t speaking about it. I am. And I won’t stop until people with the power to change this help us fix what’s wrong here. There are three key things I think everyone needs to hear: 

1. Listen more – the voice of lived experience women is strong and powerful and is the source of change.  
2. Stronger together – the Project has a ‘pay it forward’ model where we ask women who contact us seeking help to help another woman. It may not be anything more than being a texting buddy, or recommending a doctor nearby who you trust.  
3. Bravery – it isn’t weak to seek help. The Project aims to support everyone who contacts us for help, and will support you as much or as little as you feel you need. 

If you’d like to know more about what we’re trying to do at the Untangle Project. Please DM us on Instagram. We’re here. 

For free and confidential support visit the Gambling Help Online website to find out more about online counselling, live chat and email support, self-help advice and information. This is available to anyone experiencing harm and concerned about a friend or family member.

You can get immediate assistance by calling the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free, professional and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.