Gambling-related suicides and suicidality: A systematic review of qualitative evidence

Abstract

The relationship between gambling and suicides or suicidality has received much research attention in recent years. Review studies have already mapped the quantitative occurrence of suicide attempts, suicides, and self-harm among gamblers, and found a positive association. Related comorbidities and conditions have also been charted in previous reviews. However, there is still a gap in knowledge regarding the actual processes that connect gambling and suicidal behavior. To understand these processes, the current paper conducts a systematic review of qualitative evidence on gambling-related suicides and suicidality. The aim was to identify the role of gambling as well as of confounding factors in suicidality, and what kind of support suicidal individuals have received or would need. We searched for relevant literature in seven scientific databases. We included all studies that presented empirical qualitative evidence on gambling-related suicide, suicidality and/or self-harm (N = 20). The results show two main processes that connect gambling and suicidal behavior: indebtedness and shame. At the same time, suicide is a multifactorial phenomenon, and related to other confounding factors. These include psychiatric conditions, personality traits, and life conditions. In many cases, these appear to emerge as a consequence of gambling. Treatment for suicidality has been effective in some cases, but indebtedness and shame may also function as barriers to help-seeking. We conclude that effective prevention is needed by adapting a more comprehensive public health approach and population-level interventions.

Problem gambling in psychotic disorders: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of prevalence

“…psychological distress, all of which contribute to an increased risk of suicide. [27][28][29][30][31] The estimates of gambling disorder prevalence in the general population vary from 0.4% to 2.2%, [32][33][34] contingent upon variations in study methodologies and geographical location. In parallel, estimates of PBG prevalence vary from 0.12% to 6.4%, 32,34,35 being influenced by diverse contextual and methodological factors including the diagnostic instruments and thresholds employed for its definition.…”

“…Although not formally included in the DSM‐5 criteria, problem gambling (PBG) encompasses both gambling disorder and gambling behaviors that have adverse consequences for the individual, their social network, and the broader community without meeting the criteria for gambling disorder 26,27 . These consequences include financial problems (e.g., job loss, bankruptcy), social isolation, and psychological distress, all of which contribute to an increased risk of suicide 27–31 . The estimates of gambling disorder prevalence in the general population vary from 0.4% to 2.2%, 32–34 contingent upon variations in study methodologies and geographical location.…”

Gambling and financial harms: a multi-level approach

“…Financial difficulties may cause or worsen health issues, psychological suffering, and family disfunction . Debt and financial trouble are also key drivers behind gambling-related suicidality (Marionneau & Nikkinen, 2022). A UK study found that high levels of gambling were associated with 37% increase in mortality (Muggleton et al, 2021).…”

Conceptualising the commercial determinants of suicide: broadening the lens on suicide and self-harm prevention

“…24,25 People affected by gambling harm are at increased risk of suicide, likely mediated through processes related to indebtedness and shame. 26 There is increasing recognition of the potential ways in which social media use can influence suicidal behaviour, both positively and negatively, especially in young people. 2,27 Use of particular pharmaceuticals among younger people has also been associated with increased risk of suicidal behaviour.…”