Mental Health and Betting

The link between gambling addiction and mental health issues      

Gambling addiction or gambling disorder, is closely linked to mental health issues. It can worsen existing conditions like depression and anxiety, and is also a significant risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The link is bidirectional, meaning that mental health problems can contribute to the development of gambling problems, and gambling problems can, in turn, worsen mental health. 

The link between gambling and mental health issues is a complex and multifaceted one. Research has shown that gambling can have a significant impact on mental health, particularly for individuals who engage in problematic or disordered gambling. Here are some facts and Kenya-based resources:

Facts:

1. Problematic gambling: Also known as gambling disorder, it is characterized by a pattern of behavior that leads to significant distress or impairment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1% of the global population experiences problematic gambling. People who gamble compulsively often have substance misuse problems, personality disorders, depression or anxiety. Compulsive gambling may also be associated with bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
2. Mental health comorbidities: Studies have shown that individuals with gambling disorder are more likely to experience mental health issues such as: Depression, Anxiety, substance use disorders, Personality disorders. Kenyan studies show an 11.4% prevalence among students, with strong links to disorders like anxiety, psychosis, and substance abuse. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3. Trauma and stress: Gambling can be a coping mechanism for individuals dealing with trauma, stress, or other mental health issues. However, it can also worsen these problems and lead to further distress.
4. Social and financial consequences: Problematic gambling can lead to financial difficulties, relationship problems, and social isolation, which can further contribute to mental health issues.
5. Brain chemistry: Research suggests that gambling can activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine and other neurotransmitters that can lead to addiction.
6. Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Individuals with gambling problems are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts and attempting suicide. 

How Mental Health Impacts Gambling:

• Escapism: Individuals may turn to gambling as a way to cope with or escape from feelings of depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges.
• Impulsivity: Mental health conditions that involve impulsivity can make it more difficult for individuals to control their gambling urges.

Kenya-based resources:

Support systems are emerging: helplines, counseling, rehab programs, a step in the right direction.

1. Kenya National Campaign Against Drug Abuse (KNACDA): While primarily focused on substance abuse, KNACDA also provides resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
2. Kenya Psychiatric Association: This organization provides information and resources on mental health issues, including those related to gambling.
3. Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital: This hospital offers mental health services, including treatment for gambling disorder.
4. African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP): AFIDEP has conducted research on gambling and mental health in Kenya and provides resources and policy briefs on the topic.
5. Kenya Red Cross Society: The Kenya Red Cross Society offers counseling and support services for individuals affected by gambling and other mental health issues.

Recommendations

1. Expand public education on mental health risks of gambling, especially in schools.
2. Enhance regulation: strengthen ad restrictions, enforce age verification, mandate operator contributions to harm reduction.
3. Scale treatment services: integrate gambling addiction within broader mental health services at county hospitals and clinics.
4. Invest in research: collect data on trends, suicides, and efficacy of prevention programs.

References

• The co-morbidity of DSM-V Gambling with DSM-V mental disorders and substance abuse in a Kenyan context
• How Gambling Addiction is Quietly Destroying Kenya’s Youth
• Gambling Disorder and Its Link to Suicide: A Growing Concern
• Govt Includes Gambling Rehab in Health Cover Amid Rising Online Betting Cases