- Michelle Roberts
- digital health editor
image source, Getty Images
Problem gamblers are encouraged to take precautions such as placing blocks on betting websites ahead of the annual Grand National horse race on Saturday.
The Royal College of Psychiatricists say this weekend will be a challenge for many gamblers struggling to get their betting habits under control.
Government proposals for tougher gambling laws are imminently expected.
They may include wagering caps and industrial taxes to fund addiction care.
The white paper, expected to bring about the biggest transformation to the gambling industry in over 20 years, was first published in late 2020, but its publication has been repeatedly delayed.
About 600 million people watch the Grand National race at Aintree, Liverpool, including those on the track and on TV.
According to the Betting and Gaming Council, around 13 million adults in the UK place a total of around £250 million in bets.
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 the UK.
A new analysis by the National Institute for Economic and Social Research finds that the financial cost of harmful gambling to the UK is £1.4bn a year, linked to higher welfare payments and increased health care needs.
Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones of the Royal Psychiatric Society said: “While millions enjoy betting on the Grand National, those struggling to control their gambling will find this weekend particularly difficult. You may feel
“If you have a gambling disorder, it is important that you seek help from a specialized NHS clinic and have an appropriate self-exclusion agreement to stop 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
- guilt about gambling
- Others notice and comment on your actions
- keep betting to recoup lost money
Gambling disorder is characterized by a recurring pattern of behavior in which the individual feels out of control, continues to gamble despite negative consequences, and thinks gambling is more important than anything else.
If left untreated, it can lead to severe depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, says Professor Boden-Jones. Hundreds of suicides are estimated to be linked to problem gambling each year.
“If you think you have a gambling problem, you can talk to a specialist who can refer you to a specialist clinic for treatment,” says Professor Boden-Jones.
Many banks now offer the ability to limit or block gambling spending.
Gambling blocking software can be downloaded to your device, similar to apps such as: gangbangwhich allows you to block access to gambling websites and other online gambling services.
