Study shows link between gambling and suicide among Australian veterans
Date: 2023-08-28 Author: Kirill Zagoruyko Categories: EVENTS
In Australia , the intersection of post - war life problems and lenient gambling regulation has created a worrisome scenario for veterans , heightening concerns about suicide risk .
Ex-servicemen face high risk of suicide and disturbing links to gambling
Worldwide, suicide remains a major public health problem, with intentional self-harm accounting for a significant proportion of premature deaths. This is particularly pronounced among former members of the Australian Defense Force (ADF), where studies show that about 83% of reported suicide deaths involve former members of the armed forces, according to InSightPlus. Compared to the general population, the suicide rate is 27% higher among male ex-servicemen and a staggering 107% higher among women who have served.
To understand the factors contributing to this worrying trend, the researchers turned to the Transition and Well-Being Research Programme, the largest survey conducted among Australian veterans leaving the military. The results identified a period of increased risk of mental health problems, which is associated with factors such as pre-existing mental disorders and difficulty adjusting to civilian life.
Interestingly, the study also revealed a disturbing link between gambling problems and veterans. More than 13% of transition veterans reported gambling problems ranging from mild difficulties to clinically significant conditions. This trend has been associated with trauma exposure, depression, and PTSD symptoms. It is alarming that most of the veterans who came for help did not specifically mention problems with gambling. Instead, they primarily sought help for anxiety or depression.
Researchers Call for Rules to Combat Gambling and Suicidal Risk among Veterans
The researchers also found a strong correlation between gambling problems and suicidal tendencies among veterans. The likelihood of suicidal thoughts or plans was significantly increased among those who struggled with gaming difficulties. However, the study did not establish a causal relationship, highlighting the complex web of factors that underlie suicide.
The authors highlight the urgent need to address gambling issues and integrate support programs into veteran-centric services. As online gambling continues to expand and attacks on young people intensify, calls for a comprehensive regulatory intervention are getting louder. An investigation into online gambling and its negative impact on vulnerable populations recommended tightening regulations and even a total ban on gambling advertising, drawing parallels to successful anti-tobacco campaigns.
For example, Liquor & Gaming New South Wales (L&G NSW) is taking strong action against illegal gambling advertising. The regulator's strict approach, including substantial fines and prosecutions, has made New South Wales a leading gambling jurisdiction while protecting consumers from fraudulent advertising practices. In addition, New South Wales prioritizes a cashless solution to prevent money laundering and improve player safety.
Ex-servicemen face high risk of suicide and disturbing links to gambling
Worldwide, suicide remains a major public health problem, with intentional self-harm accounting for a significant proportion of premature deaths. This is particularly pronounced among former members of the Australian Defense Force (ADF), where studies show that about 83% of reported suicide deaths involve former members of the armed forces, according to InSightPlus. Compared to the general population, the suicide rate is 27% higher among male ex-servicemen and a staggering 107% higher among women who have served.
To understand the factors contributing to this worrying trend, the researchers turned to the Transition and Well-Being Research Programme, the largest survey conducted among Australian veterans leaving the military. The results identified a period of increased risk of mental health problems, which is associated with factors such as pre-existing mental disorders and difficulty adjusting to civilian life.
Interestingly, the study also revealed a disturbing link between gambling problems and veterans. More than 13% of transition veterans reported gambling problems ranging from mild difficulties to clinically significant conditions. This trend has been associated with trauma exposure, depression, and PTSD symptoms. It is alarming that most of the veterans who came for help did not specifically mention problems with gambling. Instead, they primarily sought help for anxiety or depression.
Researchers Call for Rules to Combat Gambling and Suicidal Risk among Veterans
The researchers also found a strong correlation between gambling problems and suicidal tendencies among veterans. The likelihood of suicidal thoughts or plans was significantly increased among those who struggled with gaming difficulties. However, the study did not establish a causal relationship, highlighting the complex web of factors that underlie suicide.
The authors highlight the urgent need to address gambling issues and integrate support programs into veteran-centric services. As online gambling continues to expand and attacks on young people intensify, calls for a comprehensive regulatory intervention are getting louder. An investigation into online gambling and its negative impact on vulnerable populations recommended tightening regulations and even a total ban on gambling advertising, drawing parallels to successful anti-tobacco campaigns.
For example, Liquor & Gaming New South Wales (L&G NSW) is taking strong action against illegal gambling advertising. The regulator's strict approach, including substantial fines and prosecutions, has made New South Wales a leading gambling jurisdiction while protecting consumers from fraudulent advertising practices. In addition, New South Wales prioritizes a cashless solution to prevent money laundering and improve player safety.
