- By Michelle Roberts
- Digital Health Writer
source of images, Getty Images
Problem gamblers are encouraged to take preventative measures, such as setting up blocks at betting sites, ahead of the annual Grand National horse race which takes place on Saturdays.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists says this weekend will be difficult for many players who are struggling to control their betting habits.
Government proposals for stricter gambling laws are expected imminently.
They can include betting caps and industry levies to fund addiction care.
The white paper, which is expected to cause the biggest upheaval in the gaming industry in more than two decades, was first announced in late 2020, but its publication has been repeatedly delayed.
The Grand National race, at Aintree, Liverpool, is watched by an audience of around 600 million, including those on the track and many more who watch it on TV.
According to the Betting and Gaming Council, some 13 million adults in the UK will place bets totaling around £250 million.
Each year the race generates £3 million in tax revenue for the Treasury.
Not everyone who gambles develops a gambling disorder, but it is estimated that there are between 250,000 and 460,000 problem gamblers in Britain.
According to new analysis from the National Institute for Economic and Social Research, the budgetary cost of harmful gambling in the UK is £1.4 billion a year, linked to higher social benefits and health needs increased.
Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones, of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “While millions of people will enjoy betting on the Grand National, others who struggle to control their gambling may find this weekend particularly challenging.
“If you have a gambling disorder, it is important to seek help from specialist NHS clinics and have appropriate self-exclusion agreements in place to prevent you from gambling online and in person.
“You can also install blocking software to prevent access to gambling websites.”
- Bet more than you can afford
- Feelings of guilt about your gambling
- Other people notice and comment on your behavior
- Keep betting to win back lost money
Gaming disorder is characterized by a repeated pattern of behavior where a person feels they have lost control, continues to gamble despite negative consequences, and views gambling as more important than anything else.
Untreated, it can lead to significant depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, says Professor Bowden-Jones. It is estimated that hundreds of suicides each year are related to problem gambling.
Prof Bowden-Jones said: ‘If you think you have a gambling problem talk to your GP who can refer you to a specialist clinic for treatment.
Many banks now offer the option to limit or freeze gambling spending.
Gambling blocking software can be downloaded onto devices, as can applications such as Gambanwhich allows a person to block all access to gambling websites or other online gambling services.