A recent report from Kindbridge Behavioral Health demonstrates the effectiveness of its holistic approach to addressing problem gambling. The findings emphasize the necessity for clinicians to consider accompanying mental health disorders that often affect individuals struggling with gambling issues.
Positive Outcomes from Treatment Programs
The Kindbridge report analyzed data from 279 individuals seeking treatment for gambling disorders and revealed remarkable improvements in mental health. Key statistics include:
- Depression: Scores fell from 8.9 (indicating mild depression) to 3.1 (minimal to no symptoms), representing a 65% reduction.
- Anxiety: Scores decreased from 8.1 (mild anxiety) to 1.9 (minimal anxiety), a 77% reduction.
- Alcohol Use: Significant declines in hazardous drinking behaviors were also noted.
The majority of participants (77%) were aged between 24 and 54, with 34% being in the 25-34 age range. The diverse group included various ethnicities, and over 58% of clients preferred online or app-based gambling. Interestingly, some participants hailed from states with limited legal gambling options, such as Texas and California.
Challenges in Accessing Help
While the report’s results are encouraging, Kindbridge founder and CEO Daniel Umfleet acknowledged ongoing barriers that prevent individuals from receiving the necessary help. He stated, “Reaching out for help can be daunting, especially for those in crisis.”
Kindbridge is committed to integrating value-based care across all partnerships, aiming to destigmatize problem gambling treatment and enhance awareness within broader healthcare systems. The organization plans to release quarterly reports to further aid the industry in implementing responsible gambling programs.
A key takeaway from the report is the prevalence of comorbidities—other mental health conditions that often accompany problem gambling. Umfleet noted that many clients experience issues such as major depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and insomnia.
“Gambling may be the primary concern that leads individuals to seek help, but it is often part of a larger picture,” he explained. To effectively assist clients, Kindbridge employs a holistic treatment strategy, addressing all relevant mental health issues.
Addressing the Need for Screening
Umfleet emphasized the importance of screening for gambling behaviors within traditional healthcare settings. “Many individuals seeking mental health support have not been assessed for gambling issues,” he stated.
Currently, about 70% of Kindbridge’s clients had previously sought help elsewhere without their gambling disorders being recognized. To tackle this issue, Kindbridge is working on initiatives that enhance understanding of gambling-related challenges in mental health care.
Expanding Support for Athletes
Kindbridge is also developing programs aimed at protecting athletes from problem gambling. Collaborating with the Kindbridge Research Institute, the organization is creating educational modules that focus on performance psychology and mental health challenges athletes face, especially with the rise of sports betting.
“We’re equipping students with the knowledge they need to safeguard their well-being,” Umfleet noted. The curriculum, which is freely available to players, coaches, and health professionals across Colorado, aims to foster a better understanding of the intersection between gambling and mental health in the sports context.
Sourse : https://www.playcolorado.com/kindbridge-report-problem-gamblers-other-disorders/