Crushing the Shame-Barrier on Compulsive Gambling Disorder

It is a continuous discussion in the gambling industry and as regulators pull in the reins to prevent the enabling of compulsive gambling behaviour; the light breaks through for those affected by gambling harm. With more support for people affected by gambling addiction and improved responsible gambling regulations, we could easily assume that we’re on the right track.

Success on this front boils down to how well gambling addiction is being prevented and how comfortable those affected by it are with asking for the help they need. Although it is a hot topic for regulators and support organisations, and countless studies aim to understand it better, we must ask whether the stigma around gambling addiction is being strengthened or eliminated through it all.

 Understanding Compulsive Gambling

When gambling industry stakeholders raise awareness of gambling harm and the behaviours that lead to it, they must avoid terminology that powers shame and drives stigma. A recent study undertaken by Dr Simone Rodda from the Auckland University of Technology uncovered shocking statistics on how many people with a gambling disorder actually seek help.

The stigma attached to compulsive gambling drives away the members of society who need help the most and inhibits support organisations from doing their work. With a better understanding of how addiction works and what breaks down stigma, leaders in the gambling industry have the power to crush the shame barrier. 

Gambling harm organisation, BeGambleAware (BGA), released guidance on language that strengthens the stigma on compulsive gambling. According to the organisation and the scoping study employed, a significant amount of research studies use stigmatising language in published papers. BGA believes a change in language from research facilities, legislators, and media personnel will turn this around and break the cycle of discrimination.

 More Than an Addict

The study revealed terms that may cause shame and attach a label to those who struggle with gambling disorder. For someone to seek help unapologetically, society needs to move away from labels that trigger shame. Person-first language puts the person at the centre of the conversation and correctly positions gambling addiction separate from the individual. It clarifies addiction as a mental disorder rather than an identity.

BGA reports on existing published research data with stigmatising language and explains how this perpetuates the cycle of discrimination and contributes to the stigma around gambling. The difference between helping and condemning lies in the basic principle: choice of words.

 Beyond the Linguistics Challenge

The Auckland-based psychology professor focused her study on gamblers who battle with addiction and how many of them seek help. Her findings confirm that a fraction of the gamblers who need help end up asking for it, and this problem stems from stigma and inaccessible support services. 

Dr Rodda notes self-help tools along with the opportunity to talk to someone trusted go a long way in helping individuals with gambling disorders. When people are comfortable enough to share their struggles with a friend or professional, healing can begin.

 Adjusting the Narrative

Further research studies from global stakeholders in the gambling industry help shed light on the best way forward to support at-risk players. When the individuals who take the stand and have the world’s attention help break the shame barrier, members of society no longer need to suffer in isolation.