Responsible Gambling and Mental Health: Topics for an Integrated Strategy in Prevention and Harm Reduction of Behavioral Addictions

Abstract

Problem gambling has become a major public health concern, with psychosocial and mental health consequences. Some efforts have been done in the last years by regulatory and health related bodies worldwide for assuring that betting can be safer and less harmful. A vast consensus concerning the need to promote Responsible Gambling strategies have been put forward, even though the implementation of policies in this domain is very broad, poorly systematized and often does not translate, in an evident manner, to consolidated and valid practices for promoting safe gambling and the prevention of morbidity. This paper aims to review theoretical and research‑based arguments supporting the need of investment in responsible gambling field, and to propose some recommendations for sponsoring strategic policies in which harm‑minimization and prevention tools are prioritized. A literature review was carried out through an intensive search of online electronic databases and collaborative contacts with researchers in the field of non‑substance addictive behaviors. Papers and documents from scientific and governmental boards, related to prevention and harm minimization or reduction of gambling problems and published between 1998 and 2018 were selected. Different tools in the field of responsible gambling are pointed as good and evidence‑based practices that need to be continuously implemented and replicated. Some others can be promising but need further research. The findings of this study may help many entities and stakeholders involved in this behavioral addiction field (researchers, governmental and health agencies, regulators and gambling industry) for strengthening responsible gambling national policies and strategies.