A Troubling Connection Between Gambling and Youth Suicide

In a groundbreaking study from the University of Bristol, researchers have unveiled a grim reality: problem gambling is directly linked to a significant and lasting spike in suicide attempts among young people in the UK.

The Alarming Statistics Uncovered

This research reveals that young individuals suffering from gambling issues are facing a staggering triple the risk of suicide just one year later. What’s even more disturbing? This risk quadruples four years down the line.

Longitudinal Insights from the 'Children of the 90s' Study

The study drew insights from an extensive database involving 2,801 participants from the long-term 'Children of the 90s' initiative, which has chronicled the health and growth of 14,000 families since the early nineties. This longitudinal perspective allowed researchers to isolate the long-term effects of gambling problems.

Cutting Edge Research Led by Experts

Lead researcher Olly Bastiani emphasized the study's robustness, stating, "Tracking individuals from birth enables us to genuinely assess the long-term consequences of problem gambling, effectively ruling out other factors that could skew results, such as pre-existing suicidal feelings."

The Dreadful Impact Measured by the PGSI

Using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), a score of eight or higher signifies problem gambling. Worryingly, research found that among 20-year-olds, there was a 20% increase in suicide attempts with each tick upward on the PGSI, meaning those with scores of eight and above are four times more likely to attempt suicide four years later.

Expert Insights into the Current Gambling Landscape

Senior author Dr. Philip Newall, a noted psychologist and authority on gambling harms, commented, "Participants grew up in a time when gambling was less pervasive than today. This research underscores an urgent need for preventive measures to shield the next generation from the devastating effects of gambling."

The Nationwide Gamble: An Epidemic in the UK?

Current statistics indicate that a staggering one in five people in the UK are being affected by gambling harm, be it directly or indirectly. Alarmingly, around 496 suicides annually in England are potentially linked to gambling, with the economic fallout estimated at a shocking £1.77 billion.

Call to Action: Prioritizing Youth Support

These alarming findings, recently published in the journal Addiction, highlight a crucial need for early intervention and support for young individuals grappling with gambling issues. Dr. Newall pointed out that gambling is a vital aspect of the government's suicide prevention strategy, urging for more comprehensive measures like stringent restrictions on gambling advertising to mitigate these harms.