People with gambling disorder are the subject of stigma from others. This means that they are viewed negatively, and perhaps treated poorly, because they have a problem with gambling. People with gambling disorder may blame themselves for their mental illness and may be reluctant to seek treatment. The researchers of this study interviewed 90 people, 30 of whom had gambling disorder, and the remaining 60 were professionals who worked with them. They found that stigma is more common in society in general and is lessened in friends and family members of someone with gambling disorder. Women may feel stigma more strongly than men. Stigma can be a barrier to treatment and is important to target throughout the treatment process.
