New findings from analysis of the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey show that problem gamblers are more likely than rest of the population to have thought about suicide, made a suicide attempt, or self-harmed. These relationships remained strong even when other factors like substance abuse and mental health disorders were taken into account.
People who are in regular contact with problem gamblers, including gambling operators, treatment providers, and community groups need to recognize their vulnerability and the risk of suicide. Policies and procedures could be implemented or adapted to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place to reduce suicidal behaviours and self-harm.
This is a summary of the full report Problem gambling and suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and non-suicidal self-harm in England: evidence from the Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2007, which is available from the "Related Resources" section below
