Summary
- A groundbreaking study, following individuals from birth over 24 years, has uncovered the significant dangers that young people face when ensnared by gambling addiction.
- Young adults aged 20 to 24 who struggle with gambling are at a staggering four times higher risk of attempting suicide compared to those who either steer clear of gambling or don't face gambling issues.
- The study delved into a generation that had less exposure to gambling, sparking a crucial question: Is the government ready to safeguard the future generation?
A recent study conducted by the University of Bristol has brought to light a deeply concerning issue affecting young adults who struggle with gambling addiction. The research highlights that individuals aged 20 to 24 who are grappling with gambling addiction face an alarming reality: they are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers who do not experience gambling-related harm or avoid gambling altogether.
Young people who are also problem gamblers need help, a seminal study says
The study delves deeply into the history of how gambling harms young people, led by Olly Bastiani through the groundbreaking Children of the 90s project. In this large-scale study, subjects have been monitored from birth, offering a unique opportunity to gather crucial insights into how gambling might shape an individual's health and future. Tracking 2,801 participants from birth over 24 years, Bastiani emphasized the significance of this approach: This study allowed us to assess the long-term effects of problem gambling without being hindered by other factors, such as an individual's potential inclination to gamble as an escape from pre-existing suicidal feelings. According to Bastiani, the study's results make one thing unmistakably clear: gambling-related harm is far from being under control, and a focused effort is necessary. Tailored strategies to combat gambling harm are among the steps suggested. Researchers behind the project confidently stand by their findings. Despite focusing on England, the study encompassed both affluent and disadvantaged areas, providing a balanced representation to draw conclusions. Interestingly, the study discovered minimal difference in the impact of gambling between men and women.
The next generations need to be protected
Dr. Philip Newall, who co-authored the study, emphasized that although the headline statistic referred specifically to problem gamblers being four times more likely to attempt suicide, this doesn't mean that millions of others classified as low or medium risk are completely protected from the harmful effects of gambling. Newall also highlighted the fact that the generation studied grew up when gambling was much less prevalent. He argued passionately that we must invest more effort into safeguarding future generations from the dangers associated with gambling.
