Gambling addiction — an update for clinical practice

Of the process addictions, which are all undergoing growth in Ireland, gambling is one of the most complicated, with services for this addiction currently grossly inadequate, writes Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Colin O’Gara Ireland, like the rest of the world, has experienced vast increases in internet usage and broadband quality. In addition, possession of smartphones has increased the availability of 24/7 high-quality internet access. This has had many implications for our addiction services. Most individuals presenting to our services for gambling treatment now gamble online rather than in land-based bookmakers. Bookmakers are gradually reducing in numbers throughout Ireland, and recent data…