An Exploratory Study to Assess the Barriers to Help Seeking among Male Patients with Gambling Disorder

Abstract

Context: Gambling disorder is a significant public health problem. Despite the significant negative consequences of problem gambling, a relatively small proportion actively seek help for their issues. Aims: This study was conducted to understand the reasons why people did not seek help for gambling disorders. Settings and Design: The study was conducted at a public-funded tertiary care centre (National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre [NDDTC], Ghaziabad). The study was a cross sectional and observational design. Materials and Methods: A total of 486 subjects visiting outpatient as well as inpatient settings were screened for gambling. Fifty participants were diagnosed with gambling disorder and were included in the study. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic pro forma, Gambling Readiness to Change Scale, Attitude toward Gambling Scale, Gambling Perceived Stigma Scale, Gambling Experiences Stigma Scale, and Barriers to Treatment Inventory. Statistical Analysis: Pearson’s product-moment coefficient and Kendall’s Tau correlation coefficients were computed. Independent sample t-test, ANOVA, Mann–Whitney U, and Kruskal–Wallis H-test were used for comparisons. Results: The study identified denial of the problem, perceived and experienced stigma, time conflict, and limited availability and accessibility of treatment facilities as significant barriers to treatment for problem gamblers. Conclusion: There exists a pressing necessity to impart comprehensive awareness, education, and training to various community stakeholders, including family members, friends, and health-care professionals. It is vital for treatment centers to proactively communicate their broader focus, encompassing not only substance and alcohol use challenges but also problems related to gambling.