To take control of your behaviour and make its consequences discussable, there is now the OpenOverGokken campaign. Not to point fingers, but to make space for conversation.
Gambling affects more than just the player
Addiction is the extreme. But much earlier, there are signs. Stress, money problems or tension in relationships. Yet gambling often remains something people prefer to keep quiet about. The initiators of OpenOverGokken believe this should change. That is why they call on people to raise the subject, at home or at work, at school or in the neighbourhood.
The campaign looks beyond addiction. Gambling can also cause mental or social damage. Recognising it in time can prevent a lot of misery.
Daring to share honestly is the first step
Sector organisations, municipalities, healthcare professionals and providers are emphatically invited to join in. Not with pedantic messages, but with open discussions. OpenOverGokken’s toolkit helps with this.
Posters, flyers and online visuals make it easy to draw attention to the issue. It’s all about recognisability and openness. And about realising that gambling is something that can affect anyone – directly or indirectly.
Together we make it negotiable
The campaign’s message is simple: the earlier you talk, the better you prevent. Gambling does not have to be a problem right away, but it can become one. By breaking taboos and sharing honest information, together we can make a difference.
Those who want to contribute can download material from the campaign page. Because only when people talk will there be room for understanding – and sometimes help.