Slots and Shots: Gambling Resources for the Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Sector

December 2015
Citation: 
Rowe, C., White , M., Long, C., Roche, A., & Orr, K. (2015). Slots and Shots: A gambling resource for AOD workers. Melbourne, Victoria: Odyssey House Victoria.

Many people working in the alcohol and other drug (AOD) field are aware that clients who present for treatment or assistance are often experiencing a range of other complex conditions. Whether the client is experiencing mental health issues, unstable living arrangements, and / or employment problems, AOD workers are expected to respond appropriately. Until its recent inclusion in the DSM-5 as an addictive disorder, problems with gambling often fell outside this rubric as workers may have considered it was outside their area of expertise. In some instances, AOD staff may have not recognised the similarities between substance misuse and gambling disorders, or the skill sets that are used  to respond to both sets of issues.

This resource was developed to strengthen AOD workers’ skills and understanding of gambling and help them respond appropriately to people who may also present with AOD problems. The resource defines gambling, explains why people gamble, outlines pathways into and indicators of gambling behaviour, and explores the harms associated with problem gambling. It helps agencies and workers incorporate a screening and assessment tool, the Brief BioSocial Gambling Screen (BBGS), into their consultations with clients, and presents models which organisations may adopt to help workers treat clients with gambling problems.

The resource contains:

  • A report that explores the relationship between AOD use and gambling and how the AOD sector can better identify and support clients who have co-occurring gambling issues.
  • A tri-fold handout for clients to assist them understand problem gambling and information about where to get help.
  • A waiting room poster promoting the resources and encouraging clients to seek further advice.
  • A wallet sized quick reference guide for clinicians. 

This resource was produced in collaboration with Odyssey House, Victoria and the South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services (SANDAS).

Click here to access the materials which form part of this resource.