This study examined the link between problem gambling, suicidal thoughts, and use of health care and social services. Data came from the population-based Healthy Finland survey collected by the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare from September 2022 to February 2023. In total, 28,153 adults aged 20 and older completed the survey.
The researchers found that men, younger people, those with lower education and income, and those who lived in single households were more likely to be at moderate-risk or experience problem gambling. Almost one-third of people harmed by problem gambling (31%) had suicidal thoughts. More than half had excessive alcohol use and a long-term illness. Two in five had severe psychological distress. Almost all people who were harmed by problem gambling and experienced suicidal thoughts used health care services in the past year (96%). However, just over one-third (37%) had used social services. People who gambled and experienced suicidal thoughts, but did not use health care services, were more likely to be male, between 20 and 29 years, and have excessive alcohol use. They were less likely to have a long-term illness.
