Grampians Community Health Centre problem gambling counsellor Carol Henwood said counsellors had noted people were spending more, particularly when betting on TAB events.

"It is not an increase in gambling, it is the amount that is spent," she said.

"There is more money going into racing, particularly horse racing."

Ms Henwood said gamblers spending $11 million in gaming venues between July and November last year was a concern.

She said counsellors knew some Federal Government Christmas bonus money was spent on gambling.

"Giving money to problem gamblers is like giving alcohol to a problem drinker," she said.

Ms Henwood reminded people problem gambling was a health issue.

She said gambling not only included poker machines and betting but also stocks and shares.

"It can be very hidden. If someone is using drugs or alcohol people can pick up something is wrong," she said.

"Often you can't tell until perhaps the mortgage hasn't been paid or there are not as many groceries or the person argues or behaves differently to cover up their behaviour."

Ms Henwood said problem gambling counsellors, in Horsham, Stawell and Ararat, looked at a range of potential issues when assessing their clients.

"We look at depression, loneliness, grief, abuse, family violence - all as an holistic approach we use at Grampians Community Health Centre," she said.

"Gambling is a health issue. People can have increased blood pressure and suffer heart attacks or migraines.

"It impacts physically as well as emotionally.

"I think people are acknowledging a lot more that gambling is a health issue."

Christine Walker is a problem gambling counsellor at Stawell and Tanya Mitchell is based at Ararat.