THE Department of Health (DOH) yesterday said easy access to different forms of gambling heightens the risk of players developing mental disorders and behavioral addiction.
Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo, in an interview, said gambling, in general, has long been identified as a behavioral addiction and making it accessible online only makes people more vulnerable to it.
“Gambling in general is a form of behavioral addiction. This type of addiction may be an impulse control disorder. It, therefore, falls under the category of mental disorders and or problems,” Domingo said
“Online platforms make gambling more accessible and, hence, increase the risk that individuals, who may have impulse control disorders, will be exposed to it,” he added.
The health official said the consequences of gambling addiction, including online, can be devastating and lead to financial ruin, strained relationships, and mental health issues.
“Individuals may find themselves in significant debt, losing jobs, and experiencing a decline in overall well-being,” Domingo said.
Given the prevalence of online gambling in the country, he said the DOH is now capacitating their treatment and rehabilitation centers nationwide to enable them to manage the rehabilitation processes of those with gambling addiction.
“Gambling is a form of addiction that can be addressed through rehabilitation,” he explained.
“The DOH is working to increase the capacity of its rehabilitation centers to treat patients with mental disorders, specifically those with impulse control disorder,” he also said.
Domingo said the health sector is also working to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.
“This effort aims to encourage more people to seek help without fear of shame or discrimination,” Domingo said.
