GambleAware calls for more gambling treatment services for neurodiverse people
Research has shown a possible higher risk among neurodiverse people.
UK.- Industry-backed GambleAware has called for a stronger focus on harm prevention and treatment systems for neurodiverse people in the UK. The move comes after two new reports found that neurodiverse people could face more risk of problem gambling.
The reports were conducted by IFF Research and researchers at the University of Bristol to explore how gambling harm affects people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, dyspraxia or dyscalculia.
It’s estimated that 1 in 7 people have some form of neurodivergence. GambleAware’s research found that although neurodivergent people weren’t found to gamble any more than neurotypical people, some neurodivergent people were more likely to experience gambling harm. A particularly strong link was seen between ADHD and autism and gambling harm, with people experiencing these forms of neurodiversity twice as likely to experience negative consequences from gambling.
Neurodivergent participants reported that they gambled for four main reasons: to cope with social isolation, to seek thrill and excitement, to establish routine or because they felt more comfortable in online spaces like online gambling platforms. Some autistic people saw gambling as an escape from bullying and a way to pass time.
The reports suggested that the speed and style of gambling, particularly verticals with a lot of repetition and sensory stimulation, such as online slots, could contribute to more harm among people with ADHD or autism because of sensory sensitivities and a greater likelihood of engaging in repetitive behaviour. The studies also note that people with ADHD can find it difficult to assess the risk of gambling because they process probability differently, which makes risky behaviour more appealing.
The report identified potential barriers such as cognitive overload, confusion or anxiety, impulsivity and sensory sensitivity as challenges for access to existing options of formal support for gambling harm. It recommends screening problem gamblers for neurodivergence and personalising treatment if needed.
It also recommended adapting early intervention tools, such as simplified communication, alongside more sensory-friendly environments and flexible treatment options, including online. The research will continue in an attempt to co-design resources for gambling support services with neurodivergent people.
GambleAware director of evidence and insights Haroon Chowdry said: “Gambling harms can affect anyone. However, this research shows that people who are neurodivergent are particularly at risk of experiencing gambling harm, and may have specific needs in terms of treatment and support.
“The research also shows that the way many gambling games operate, particularly online casino games with repetition and sensory stimulation, can especially contribute to people with ADHD and autism experiencing gambling harm. It is vital that people know the risks associated with gambling, which is why we are urging the introduction of better signposting and mandatory health warnings on gambling advertising so people know where to go for help and support.
“We hope the important findings from this research will also be used to inform the future gambling harms prevention and treatment systems, to ensure that they are effective for everyone.”
Clare Palmer, associate director at IFF Research, added: “Our initial analysis of existing evidence revealed how nuanced the relationship between neurodivergence and gambling is, and how little was known about neurodivergent people’s experiences of gambling and gambling harms. We built on this in the next stage of our research design, in which we spoke directly with neurodivergent individuals who gamble to understand their gambling journey, first-hand experiences of gambling harms, and perspectives on how treatment and support can best be shaped to work for them.
“We are excited now to be in the thick of the third and final phase of this research, co-designing tools with Ara and our Advisory Panel of professional and lived experience experts. This key step will ensure the research has a meaningful impact on the future delivery of gambling support services for neurodivergent people.”
Guy Hawker, gambling service delivery manager at Ara Recovery 4 All, which provides gambling harm treatment said: “The research has allowed us to focus on the needs of neurodivergent clients to improve treatment outcomes from initial engagement through to their planned exit of the service.
“Our adaptations will focus on screening at assessment, and ensuring communication and learning styles are identified, which will support the individual to engage with treatment more effectively. We can adopt more CBT-focused one-to-one sessions and workshops into our treatment, ensuring all our resources and assets meet the needs of those using the service and there is additional coaching support that will make sure people’s needs are being met.”
Last month, GambleAware appointed Andy Boucher as its chair of trustees, replacing Siân Griffiths, who retired on April 1 after becoming chair in July last year.
Meanwhile, researchers have told British MPs that more restrictions should be placed on land-based slots and gambling ads. At a meeting of the parliamentary Health and Social Care Committee, the researchers also made recommendations relating to the new British gambling levy.
