Gambling Addiction Support Service Opens in Bristol

Listen to this news articleLISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:

A new program providing specialized therapies for individuals struggling with gambling addiction has been launched in Bristol.

Established by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP), the Bristol hub will provide various interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with gambling problems.

Gambling disorder is a common mental health condition that has many negative effects on people's lives, and we are pleased this has been recognized as a national and regional NHS priority. Patients are able to self-refer into the service directly or via referral from a local healthcare professional - so anybody who thinks they may need support should get in touch.

Chris GillmoreClinical Lead for AWP's South West Gambling Service

Collaborating with Mental Health Matters, H2CD, Togetherall, Dr. Julian, and Intuitive Thinking Skills, the service aims to launch additional centers in the North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and Plymouth regions before the year's end.

Increase in Gambling Addiction

According to a Gambling-related harms evidence review carried out by the UK government, 0.5% of the adult population has a problem with gambling, 3.8% are gambling at at-risk levels, and 7% are affected negatively by other people's gambling.

UK Gambling Commission figures also stated that over 130,000 individuals across the United Kingdom could be suffering from problems acquired from gambling.

The rise in figures of problem gamblers in the UK has led NHS England to open more gambling addiction centers across the country. Some of the locations where the NHS has expanded its gambling treatment services include Essex, Derby, Liverpool, Blackpool, Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

The impacts of harmful gambling are widespread, affecting people's relationships and health. Figures demonstrate this is a growing issue and we will work to protect people from the damaging impacts of harmful gambling.

Mathew PageChief Operating Officer at AWP

More Responsible Gambling News

RELATED TOPICS: Responsible Gambling

Leave a Comment

user avatar
My Name United States of America
Rating:
0.0
Your Comment

User Comments

Comments for Gambling Addiction Support Service Opens in Bristol