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IRELAND’S FIRST FULLY-FUNDED gambling addiction treatment programme has been launched today.
The new programme, labelled the ‘Gambling and Gaming Specific Outpatient Programme’, will be administered in addiction treatment organisation the Rutland Centre in Knocklyon, Co. Dublin.
This initiative, supported by the HSE, aims to provide “targeted support” to individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) estimates that 1 in 30 adults in Ireland now suffers from ‘problem gambling’, equating to approximately 130,000 people.
A further 279,000 Irish adults show moderate evidence of problem gambling.
Treatment for serious gambling addictions currently involves an initial assessment by a HSE specialist, a comprehensive assessment and counselling.
The Rutland Centre’s new programme will aid those referred by HSE specialists.
The new addiction treatment programme is a ten-week rolling group that combines process group work, psychoeducational seminars, and one-to-one counselling sessions.
It is designed for people over the age of 18 who present with gambling addiction, and the Rutland Centre say that they will use a “robust aftercare system” to ensure ongoing support for participants.
Participants in the ten-week Gambling Specific Outpatient Programme will participate in structured group therapy sessions twice a week with the Rutland Centre.
They will also be provided with a weekly online psychoeducational seminar covering topics such as addiction awareness, emotional regulation, and relapse prevention.
Every two weeks, each participant will also attend a one-to-one counselling session tailored to their individual needs.
Upon completing the programme, they will be offered access to the Rutland Centre’s Continuing Care programme, where they will be offered long-term support through peer networks and follow-up sessions.
In a statement, the Rutland Centre said that the launch of this programme marks a “significant shift” in how problem gambling is addressed.
The addiction treatment group added that the programme ensures that those affected by gambling addiction can now access comprehensive support “without financial barriers”, as they will be referred to them.
Emma Kavanagh, Head of Clinical Services at the Rutland Centre, said that the organisation is “seeing more” problem gambling, particularly among young men.
“Mobile phones and online gambling apps are making the problem worse, as it’s become far too easy to place a bet anytime, anywhere,” Kavanagh said.
“Our new programme supports people in taking back control, whether their addiction stems from sports betting, online casinos, or other forms of gambling.”
Kavanagh added that the type of treatment provided in the new programme is “effective”.
“Families should consider this programme because gambling addiction often affects loved ones as much as the individual, and structured support can help rebuild relationships and restore stability,” Kavanagh said.
Those who wish to avail of the Rutland Centre services can find more information here.
You can find your local service for addiction treatments on this map.
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