Women and Gambling Addiction: Breaking the Stigma

Gambling addiction is often perceived as a predominantly male issue. However, recent studies and statistics reveal that women are increasingly becoming victims of this addiction.

"While men are more prone to problem gambling, we should not forget that many women struggle as well," says Thomas Jansen, a gambling expert. This article aims to shed light on the growing concern of gambling addiction among women and the need to break the societal stigma surrounding it.

The Rising Numbers

"According to a study from GambleAware, more than 1 million women are at risk of gambling addiction," notes Jansen. While 4.2 percent of men were found to be problem gamblers, the figure stands at 2.9 percent for women, according to a 2013 study. Jansen adds, "The numbers are telling; we can't afford to ignore the issue among women any longer."

The number of women seeking treatment for gambling addiction in the UK has doubled in the past five years, rising from 1,134 to 2,423. However, the majority of them do not seek treatment due to stigma and embarrassment. "The stigma is a significant roadblock. It's preventing women from getting the help they need," says Jansen.

Seasonal Trends and Online Gambling

Jansen highlights the transformative impact of smartphone accessibility to online gambling platforms, particularly for women. The research corroborates this by showing a 29% uptick in traffic to female-dominated gambling sites like bingo from December to March. “These seasonal fluctuations are alarming. They suggest the issue is not just ongoing but also variable, adding another layer of risk,” notes Jansen.

The Psychological Aspect

"Many women use gambling as a form of escapism to relax and forget other problems," Jansen says.

"Some women use gambling as me-time, but the line between relaxation and addiction is often blurred," warns Jansen.

Breaking the Stigma

"The stigma surrounding women and gambling addiction is a significant barrier to seeking help," Jansen reiterates. Gambling behaviors manifest differently in women than in men. "Understanding these behavioral differences is key to tackling the issue effectively," adds Jansen.

Future Steps and Regulation

Jansen anticipates that the UK government will unveil plans for stricter gambling regulations in the coming two months. He believes it's a positive move, yet emphasizes that further efforts are essential, particularly in raising public consciousness and educational outreach.

GambleAware is taking action through an ad campaign that brings attention to red flags like losing sense of time, overspending beyond one's means, and concealing gambling activities from loved ones.

Thomas Jansen sums it up by saying, "We need to break the cycle of addiction and the stigma that surrounds it, offering a lifeline to the millions of women at risk." The rising numbers of women facing gambling addiction and the societal stigma they encounter necessitate immediate attention and action. By acknowledging the issue and taking proactive steps, we can hope to break the cycle of addiction and the stigma that surrounds it.