Cross-sectional studies identify problem gambling as a risk factor for suicidality. Using an online longitudinal survey, Heather Wardle aimed to examine the association between changes in severity of gambling behaviour and attempted suicide.

Heather Wardle's study showed that among young adults living in Great Britain, increasing PGSI scores were associated with greater risk of suicide attempts. This was evident irrespective of confounders and previous PGSI scores, suggesting that any increase in severity for this age group along the continuum of gambling harms might be an important marker warranting early investigation. Future studies should explore this further, examining results among all adults, and among samples using random probability designs. Nevertheless, these findings suggest that, in addition to calls for more universal preventive action, routine and repeated screening for gambling harms could be embedded within relevant health, social care, and public service settings to allow effective identification and suicide prevention activities among young adults at elevated risk.
 
Heather Wardle and Cahal McQuillan discuss the association between gambling and suicide attempts, the implications for prevention activities and policies, and The Lancet Public Health’s upcoming Commission.

To read Heather Wardle's full research paper on gambling and suicidality research follow the link below. 

Heather Wardle on the association between gambling and suicide attempts

Heather Wardle Twitter - @shwardle

 

Visit the Gambling Research Glasgow website here 

 

First published: 27 February 2023

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