Online Gamblers, Poker Machine users More Prone to Gambling Disorder in Australia, NZ: Study

October 22, 2024 Australia iGaming & Gambling

Gambling disorder has emerged as a significant public health issue in Australia and New Zealand, according to a recent narrative review published in the Medical Journal of Australia. This comprehensive review highlights the widespread impact of gambling addiction, current identification and treatment strategies, and the urgent need for improved long-term solutions.

Researchers from Auckland University of Technology and Deakin University in Melbourne conducted the study. They found that gambling disorder goes beyond personal financial ruin; it is a catalyst for severe mental health crises, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. This multifaceted problem affects a diverse demographic, and certain groups, particularly men, online gamblers, and poker machine users, are particularly vulnerable.

In Australia, the gambling landscape is staggering, with more than $24 billion wagered annually on poker machines, sports betting, lotteries, and casino games. Notably, poker machines are associated with the highest expenditure and prevalence of gambling problems. Over the past 25 years, research in this area has expanded rapidly, largely due to the introduction of levies on gambling operators. The review notes that approximately 1% of the adult population in both countries suffers from gambling disorder, with an additional 3-5% at risk.

Recent debates surrounding gambling reform have intensified in Australia, focusing on gambling advertising and youth protection. The Australian government is considering major restrictions, which could include a complete ban on digital advertisements and prohibiting television commercials for an hour before and after sports broadcasts. Such measures aim to reduce exposure to gambling-related content, particularly for younger audiences who are impressionable.

Internationally, the prevalence of gambling disorder varies, ranging from 0.5% to 7.6%, with an average of 1.3% to 2.3%. This highlights that the problem is not confined to Australia and New Zealand but is a global issue requiring attention. The shift towards online betting has intensified the gambling problem, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which pushed many gamblers to online platforms that are harder to regulate.

While there are robust but fragmented efforts to tackle gambling harm in both countries, challenges remain. Government-funded counseling services offer both in-person and online support, but the review reveals that only 20% of individuals struggling with gambling disorders seek help. Barriers such as shame and a sense of self-reliance often deter people from accessing treatment. This gap emphasizes the need for increased awareness and outreach to encourage those affected to seek assistance.

From a clinical perspective, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing are among the most effective treatments for gambling disorder. However, long-term data on treatment outcomes are limited. Short-term interventions may show promise, but there is a critical lack of understanding regarding the best approaches for various populations, especially in community-based settings where many individuals seek care.

In New Zealand, gambling issues are most prevalent among those aged 18 to 24. Interestingly, the highest rates of help-seeking occur in the 25 to 44 age group. This age discrepancy indicates a need for targeted interventions tailored to different demographics. The progression of gambling disorder varies; some individuals alternate between regular and binge gambling, while others experience periods of remission.

Relapse is another significant concern in the treatment of gambling disorder. Approximately 25% of individuals relapse within the first year of recovery, and this rate increases to 30% by the second year and 40% by the third. Such statistics highlight the importance of relapse prevention strategies and ongoing monitoring as essential components of effective treatment.

The review stresses that prevention should be a primary focus. Both Australia and New Zealand are shifting towards a harm-reduction approach, recognizing that early intervention may be more effective than waiting for individuals to reach the clinical threshold for gambling disorder. This proactive stance could lead to better outcomes and reduced rates of addiction.

Ultimately, the researchers argue that gambling disorder is not merely an addiction but a complex public health issue requiring coordinated efforts across government, healthcare, and community sectors. There is an urgent need for a holistic approach that encompasses prevention, treatment, and ongoing support for individuals affected by gambling disorders.