HEALTH TALK: Breaking the stigma of gambling–Part 2

…continued from last week

Casino games: Slot machines, table games (e.g., blackjack, roulette), and poker.

Lotteries: State-run lotteries, scratch-off tickets, and online lotteries.

Sports betting: Wagering on sports events, such as football, basketball, and horse racing.

Online gaming: Internet-based gaming, including online casinos, poker rooms, and sportsbooks.

Bingo and keno*: Games of chance played in bingo halls or online.

Effects on individuals

Gambling can have severe negative effects on individuals, including:

Financial problems: Gambling can lead to financial ruin, as individuals may spend more money than they can afford to lose.

Mental health problems: Gambling can contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.

Social problems: Gambling can lead to social isolation, relationship problems, and decreased productivity.

Physical health problems: Gambling can contribute to physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and sleep disorders.

Gambling can also have negative effects on the government, including:

Loss of revenue: Gambling can lead to a loss of revenue for the government, as individuals may spend money on gambling activities rather than paying taxes.

Increased crime:  Gambling can contribute to increased crime, such as money laundering, theft, and violent crime.

Social welfare costs: Gambling can lead to increased social welfare costs, such as healthcare costs, social services costs, and law enforcement costs.

Increased risk of problem gambling*: Youth are more susceptible to developing gambling problems due to brain development and impulsivity.

Negative impact on mental health: Gambling can exacerbate mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.

Gambling can lead to decreased academic performance, social isolation, and relationship problems.

Financial problems: Gambling can lead to debt, bankruptcy, and financial instability.

Mental health issues: Gambling can contribute to depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

Relationship problems: Gambling can strain relationships with family and friends.

Cognitive impairment: Excessive gambling can lead to cognitive decline and impaired decision-making.

To address the issue of gambling in Nigeria, the following solutions can be implemented:

Education/awareness: Educating individuals about the risks associated with gambling can help prevent addiction.

Regulation: Strengthening regulations around gambling can help prevent underage gambling, money laundering, and other illegal activities.

Treatment and support: Providing treatment and support services for individuals struggling with gambling addiction can help them recover.

Alternative leisure activities: Providing alternative leisure activities, such as sports and hobbies, can help reduce the appeal of gambling.

Education and awareness: Educate individuals about the risks and consequences of gambling.

Responsible gaming practices: Encourage responsible gaming practices, such as setting limits and seeking help when needed.

Parental involvement: Encourage parents to monitor their children’s gaming activities and educate them about responsible gaming.

Community-based programmes: Develop community-based programs to prevent and treat gambling problems.

Management

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): A type of therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Motivational interviewing (MI): A goal-oriented approach that helps individuals resolve ambivalence and develop a plan for change.

Medications: Medications, such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers, may be used to treat underlying mental health conditions.

Support groups: Support groups, such as Gamblers Anonymous, provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and receive support.

Inpatient treatment programmes: Residential programs that provide intensive therapy and support.

Outpatient treatment programmes: Non-residential programs that provide therapy and support on an outpatient basis.

Online treatment: Online programmes that provide therapy and support through digital platforms.

Further research: Conducting further research on the prevalence and effects of gambling in Nigeria can help policymakers develop effective solutions.

Develop a national gambling policy*: Developing a national gambling policy can help regulate the industry and prevent underage gambling, money laundering, and other illegal activities.

Provide treatment and support services*: Providing treatment and support services for individuals struggling with gambling addiction can help them recover.

Promote alternative leisure activities: Promoting alternative leisure activities, such as sports and hobbies, can help reduce the appeal of gambling.

Gambling is a complex issue that affects individuals, families, and communities. Understanding the causes, effects, and prevention strategies is crucial in addressing this public health concern. Effective management and treatment options are available, and seeking help is the first step towards recovery.

The psychological management of gambling disorder therefore requires a comprehensive approach that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness-based interventions, family therapy, and support groups. By addressing the underlying psychological factors that contribute to gambling disorder, individuals can develop the skills and strategies needed to maintain recovery and improve their overall well-being.

1. National Bureau of Statistics. (2019). Gambling in Nigeria.

2. Adelekan, M. L. (2020). Gambling among Nigerian university students. Journal of Gambling Studies, 36(2), 257-272.

3. Ladapo, O. (2020). The impact of gambling on mental health in Nigeria. Journal of Mental Health, 29(2), 147-153.

4. World Health Organization. (2018). International Classification of Diseases (11th ed.).

5. Adelekan, M. L. (2015). Problem gambling among Nigerian university students. Journal of Gambling Studies, 31(2), 257-272.

6. Ladapo, O. (2017). Prevalence and correlates of problem gambling among Nigerians. African Journal of Psychiatry, 20(2), 147-153.

7. National Center for Responsible Gaming. (2020). Gambling Disorder.

8. Petry, N. M. (2010). Pathological gambling: Etiology, comorbidity, and treatment. New York: Oxford University Press.