Lived experiences of suicidal behaviours among women with gambling disorder

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Author(s): Karlsson, Anna ; Håkansson, Anders ; Hansson, Helena

Journal: Journal of Behavioral Addictions

Year Published: 2023

Date Added: October 02, 2023

Gambling disorder (GD) is linked with higher risk of suicidality in women. Suicidality refers to suicidal behaviours, including suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts. This study explored the lived experiences of suicidality among women with GD. The researchers interviewed seven women. Several women experienced suicidality before GD due to mental health problems and life events. For some women, suicidality appeared due to the consequences of GD. Three main themes emerged from the interviews. The first one was guilt, shame, and self-stigmatization leading to suicidality. The second one was loss of control/chaotic life circumstances leading to suicidality. The third theme was social consequences/fear of guilt and shame from others leading to suicidality.

Citation: Karlsson, A., Håkansson, A., & Hansson, H. (2023). Personal experiences of suicidality in women with gambling disorder – A qualitative interview study. Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 12(2), 510–521. https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.2023.00024.

Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.2023.00024

Keywords: debt ; gambling disorder ; guilt ; stigma ; suicidality ; women

Topics: Comorbidities ; Stigmatization ; Suicide

Conceptual Framework Factors: Social - Stigmatization ; Psychological - Comorbid Disorders ; Cultural - Gender ; Psychological Factors ; Cultural Factors

Study Design: Qualitative: Content Analysis

Geographic Coverage: Sweden

Study Population: Seven participants from Malmö, Sweden, who identify as a woman, have a GD, have experienced suicidality (thoughts and/or actions), and are enrolled at the Triangelmottagningen, Öppenvårdsmottagningen Gustav or Spelberoendes förening. Three of the participants were aged 20-40, three were aged 41-65, and one was over 65 years old.

Sampling Procedure: Criterion sampling was used. The inclusion criteria for the study were as follows: - Identifying as a woman; - Having a GD; - Having experienced suicidality (thoughts and/or actions); - Being enrolled at the Triangelmottagningen, Öppenvårdsmottagningen Gustav or Spelberoendes förening. Participants were recruited through posting posters at the recruitment centers. The researchers informed the therapists at the two treatment centers and handed out information and consent brochures. They contacted the regional head of the third center (a patient organization) and handed out information holders as well partook in a digital meeting to inform potential participants.

Study Funding:

This study was funded by the Swedish Southern Health Care Region and AB Svenska Spel.