The Irish College of Psychiatrists (CPI) has urged a total prohibition on gambling promotions in sports, starting next year.
The CPI, which represents mental health professionals in Ireland, asserts that there is a strong connection between gambling advertising and problematic gambling. They published a report titled “Position Paper on Gambling Disorder” which advocates for an immediate ban on advertising and expanded treatment choices for individuals grappling with gambling issues.
The CPI states that there has been a surge in individuals seeking assistance for gambling difficulties since the COVID-19 confinement. This is attributed to increased isolation, more time for gambling while working remotely, and exposure to more online promotions.
Professor Colin O’Gara, the author of the report, stated that we cannot disregard the link between gambling advertising and problematic gambling. He remarked that gambling is becoming excessively commonplace and is being associated with sports entertainment.
Just as with tobacco products, I believe in a decade we will reflect on the pervasive gambling promotions in sports and entertainment and question how we permitted them to become so prevalent. Currently, gambling advertisements are ubiquitous in Ireland, particularly before programs intended for mature audiences.
A recent study published by the Department of Addiction Psychiatry at the College suggests that Ireland requires immediate action to address gambling issues through a range of approaches, including public awareness campaigns, legal frameworks, advertising restrictions, and treatment programs.
Ireland will introduce a new gambling oversight body in 2021, tasked with regulating advertising, gambling websites, and applications.
The CPI states that the research follows concerning data released by ESPAD (European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs) regarding adolescent gambling habits, revealing that Irish 16-year-olds exhibit significantly higher gambling rates compared to their counterparts in other European nations.
The study indicates that 37% of 16-year-olds utilize slot machines, surpassing the European average of 21%, and 61% of teenagers engage in sports betting, exceeding the European average of 45%.
Commenting on the current concerns, CPI President Dr. William Flannery remarked: “The repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic have been particularly severe for those grappling with gambling issues.”
The feeling of being alone, cut off, and having nothing to do are significant contributors to the start and return of addiction. These are all unfortunate consequences of the required social distancing rules put in place to slow the spread of the virus since last March.
“Even without live sports, it’s tough for people to avoid things that make them want to gamble, with the rise of online gambling ads and new betting sites. We need to help people by making stricter rules and responsible gambling measures part of the industry.”
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