Is the UK experiencing a gambling addiction crisis?

What’s included?

1. Introduction
2. The impact of gambling on the brain 
3. How to recognise a loved one might have a problem
4. What Delamere can do to help

This month, new research by the University of Bristol revealed that young people struggling with gambling addiction are 4 times more at risk of attempting suicide.

It comes after a study by the Gambling Commission earlier in the year estimated that 2.5% of the adult population was experiencing gambling addiction and, more recently, warnings from GamCare about souring gambling debts since January this year.

It has never been simpler than it is now to place a bet.

We all live our lives with phones in our pockets, always accessible and ready to use. As gambling has transitioned from betting shops to mobile apps, it has also never been easier to hide the habit.

In the research, gamblers aged 20-24 were the most at risk of attempting suicide – a generation already struggling with mental health issues more than others. 

According to research by YoungMinds only 12% of Gen Z asked thought that the Government takes young people’s mental health seriously.

We need to encourage more open and compassionate conversations to take place at the GP, in the news and on social media, and around the dinner table on the topic of gambling to ensure that young people do not struggle alone and get the help they need.

Need help?
Call us confidentially at any time to speak to a member of our team.

Call us now: 0330 111 2015

The impact of gambling on the brain 

Every time someone wins a bet, dopamine is released in the brain, evoking feelings of pleasure. 

Over time, the brain needs more to trigger the same amount of dopamine, leading to people placing larger or riskier bets. 

The more bets are placed, the more the action becomes compulsive – the same way that most people check their phone unconsciously. 

This dopamine cycle and compulsive behaviour makes it considerably harder to stop gambling, and can lead to withdrawals such as low moods, anxiety and irritability.

Changes to behaviour can often be subtle. Thousands of adults and children across the country suffer in silence, and alone, making it doubly important to be able to spot the signs and intervene sensitively and compassionately.

How to recognise a loved one might have a problem

For friends and family concerned about someone’s inability to control their gambling compulsions, here are key signs to watch for:

• Withdrawal: Feeling irritable, restless, dissatisfied, and depressed when not placing a bet.
• Progression: Smaller stakes no longer provide the same ‘high,’ prompting bigger risks in frequency and amount gambled.
• One-track mind: The person seems to come alive when thinking about or planning their next bet.
• Chasing losses: Inability to stop despite significant losses, leading to debt, job or relationship issues, or mental health problems.
• Dishonesty: Cover-ups and lies about the full extent of their gambling, attempting to hide or deny negative consequences.

What Delamere can do to help

This issue seems to be getting worse, with more people suffering in silence.

Gambling addiction is often the symptom of other deeper issues. Delamere’s four-phase intensive gambling treatment programme treats the whole person, not just the symptoms of addiction.

To help our guests grow beyond addiction, we offer a range of holistic therapies alongside traditional methods. This includes reiki, breathwork, equine therapy, qigong and yoga, which guests enjoy alongside CBT, group therapy and 1-1 talking therapy. 

It all begins with a conversation – pick up the phone to our compassionate and non-judgemental admissions team today to see if Delamere can help you. 

Need help?
Call us confidentially at any time to speak to a member of our team.

Call us now: 0330 111 2015

Summary

Article Name

Cannabis is no longer just a ‘gateway drug’

Description

Is the UK experiencing a gambling addiction crisis? New research by the University of shows young gamblers 4x likelier to attempt suicide.

Author

Alex Molyneux

Publisher Name

Delamere Health Ltd

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About the author: Martin Preston

Martin created Delamere in order to provide exemplary care in first class facilities. Find out more about Martin on our team page.