2,500 people take on the 100 Day Challenge to tackle gambling problems

'Fight for the real you' has inspired more than 2,500 people to take control of their gambling in the 100 Day Challenge.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation chief executive officer Serge Sardo says the high number of participants reflects how people with gambling problems have identified with the campaign heroes and felt motivated to reach out for support.

"People continue to be moved and inspired by the four courageous individuals who have tackled their gambling problems in front of the camera and in front of the world," said Mr Sardo.

"As with other health conditions, raising awareness by talking about our experiences of overcoming a problem or an illness can help others do the same," said Mr Sardo.

The problem gambling campaign is underpinned by fightforyou.com.au, an online support service that has attracted over 230,000 visitors since it was launched in late March 2013.

Mr Sardo says the success of the 100 Day Challenge also indicates an appetite among people for online support, information and self help tools to tackle their gambling problems.

"The Fight for you website gives people the opportunity to sign up for the 100 Day Challenge, join online forums, chat live with a counsellor, receive tips and tools for controlling their gambling, set goals, track their gambling and keep their own private written or video diary," said Mr Sardo.

Research has demonstrated that the key to reducing problem gambling is early identification and treatment, and increasing awareness among people at risk of developing a problem.

"With this campaign, we wanted to raise awareness about the way problem gambling can affect people from all walks of life and help people take positive steps towards controlling their gambling," said Mr Sardo.

Campaign participant Aleks, 40, says admitting he had a gambling problem and seeking help wasn't easy.

"My gambling wasn't under control, it used to control me. I had no money. I couldn't pay my rent or the bills. Gambling gave me an escape from my problems. It was an ongoing cycle I couldn't seem to break," said Aleks.

"I look back on my journey to see how far I've come since I started the challenge. It's been an emotional journey of self discovery, but now I'm proud to say I haven't gambled for over 200 days," said Aleks.

Fight for You will continue as a permanent addition to the gambling support services funded by the Foundation that includes Gambler's Help face-to-face counselling, the Gambler's Help telephone line and Gambling Help online.

Be inspired and sign up for the 100 Day Challenge at fightforyou.com.au

Free, confidential help is available for gamblers and their families, 24/7 through Gambler's Helpline 1800 858 858 or Gambling Help online.