U.S. can learn from Brazil's Gambling Addiction "Pandemic"

Brazil wants to crack down on what it calls the "pandemic" of gambling addiction. The country's government halted operations of establishments without a license. Finance Minister Fernando Haddad says there's an "urgent need" to control the gambling industry. One of his measures includes banning credit card payments to fund online gambling accounts.

Most of these measures went into effect on October 1. The Brazilian government plans to block betting operators who aren't authorized to operate in Brazil. Other protocols include crackdowns on advertising and sponsorship. Despite the criticism, the crackdown is not about generating tax revenue but addressing the seriousness of gambling addiction.

Gambling addiction in Brazil

Brazil has a countrywide gambling crisis. A survey from the market research specialist Hibou found that 10% of the population experienced financial problems as a result of their gambling. The survey studied 2,839 participants in Brazil from different social groups.

According to the study, 68% of Brazilians admitted to gambling. Sixteen percent of participants admitted they had financial fallout from gambling. Aside from the figures, only 2% of the population consider themselves gambling addicts.

Media played a role in Brazil's gambling problem. Forty-two percent of respondents noticed gambling advertisements on television. Another influence is the country's love of football. 71% of participants say that sponsorship of a brand with their favorite team would encourage them to bet.

Gambling Addiction in the U.S. - Stats and Trends

According to the factsheet from Yale Medicine, gambling addiction affects about 1% of the American population. Most admit they can't quit gambling despite the negative outcomes.

Information from the National Council on Problem Gambling found that two million U.S. adults exhibit signs of severe gambling disorder. The report found that four to six million American adults either have mild to moderate symptoms. The study doesn't discriminate, as gambling addiction can affect people of all ages, genders, and socioeconomic groups.

It's difficult to tell if a friend or family member suffers from a gambling problem. Some individuals might hide or lie about their addiction. Gambling addiction can cause financial and health issues. It can lead to co-occurring mental health problems, such as suicide. The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling found that half of individuals in treatment for a gambling disorder experienced suicidal thoughts, while 17% attempted suicide.

Gambling lessons the United States can learn from Brazil

Gambling isn't just a problem in Brazil. It's a problem everywhere, including the United States. The U.S. can take a few lessons from Brazil's crackdown. For instance, the government could crack down on celebrity sponsorships associated with betting. There should also be restrictions on aggressive advertising tactics, especially with teenagers and children.

Gambling addiction treatment in the U.S.

Gambling treatment in the United States includes the following approaches:

Therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is recommended for gambling addiction. It helps individuals to uncover their negative thoughts and belief patterns and replace them with healthier ones. Family therapy and relationship counseling might also help.

Medication. Medication can treat any co-occurring mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers might be used. Certain types of medication might also treat impulsivity and reduce compulsive gambling.

Self-help support groups. Individuals might find it beneficial to speak with others who struggle with compulsive gambling. Gamblers Anonymous is an example of one support group based on the 12-step model of Alcoholics Anonymous.

In severe cases, treatment for gambling addiction might take place in an inpatient program, an outpatient program, or a residential treatment program. Treatment for anxiety, depression, or substance abuse might be included in that plan.

Birches Health offers virtual treatment for gambling addiction. This alternative form of treatment allows the individual to receive care and support at home. Therapy could take place via chat, phone, or video cam. A licensed professional will provide a structured and tailored program for effective recovery.

There are many ways to get started with Birches Health:

You can also contact us directly by calling 833-483-3838 or emailing hello@bircheshealth.com.