Ireland launches unique support for women with gambling addiction
Date: 2024-09-06 Author: Robert Beloved Categories: EVENTS
Problem gambling in Ireland
Gambling addiction is becoming an increasingly serious problem in Ireland. According to a 2023 study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), around 130,000 Irish adults (around one in 30) meet the criteria for a ‘problem gambler’. In addition, a further 279,000 people are involved in hazardous gambling.
Significantly, 45.5% of those experiencing gambling problems are women. However, the stigma associated with female gambling addiction means that many women avoid discussing their problems and do not seek professional help. As a result, the number of women seeking support remains disproportionately low.
New EmpowerHer Initiative
In response to this problem, the Extern Problem Gambling Network, which provides free counselling and support to people with gambling addiction and their loved ones, has launched a new service, EmpowerHer Recovery Network. The initiative offers women a safe and confidential space where they can talk openly about their problems without fear of judgement.
Breaking Down Barriers
Project Director, Claire Donegan, noted that many women are afraid to admit their addiction for fear of being perceived negatively. According to additional ESRI data, the number of women affected by gambling in Ireland has increased tenfold in 2023 compared to 2019, reaching 2.9% of the total population.
“My aim is to provide a free and safe space that helps women break down barriers and makes the first step towards recovery less daunting,” said Donegan.
EmpowerHer offers women one-on-one coaching sessions, group meetings and access to a full recovery toolkit. It has also launched a new season of podcasts featuring women affected by gambling sharing their stories.
The Need for the Program in Ireland
According to consultant Barry Grant, the new service is urgently needed in Ireland not only to reduce the stigma associated with gambling addiction in women, but also to motivate them to seek help.
Currently, women make up only 10% of all people who decide to start treatment for gambling addiction. As ESRI researchers note, the real number of victims may be significantly higher, which underlines the seriousness of the problem.
At the same time, Justice Minister James Brown is actively working to introduce new laws to regulate the gambling industry in the country before the next elections.
