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GAME ADDICTION IN UKRAINE: CURRENT SITUATION AND PATHS SOLUTION
Gambling addiction, or ludomania, is one of the most pressing problems of modern society, especially in the context of the rapid development of online gambling. In Ukraine, this problem has become especially noticeable after the legalization of gambling in 2020.
Despite the economic and social benefits of legalization – revenue and job creation – it has also led to an increase in the number of people suffering from pathological gambling.
According to research, about 3–51% of the population of Ukraine has a tendency to gambling addiction, and about 11% suffer from a severe form of gambling addiction.
The most vulnerable category is young people who actively use smartphones and the Internet. Online casinos, bookmakers and mobile applications with gambling are available 24/7, which makes them not only attractive, but also dangerous. People suffering from gambling addiction often face:
- financial problems;
- loss of job;
- destruction of family relationships;
- deterioration of mental health.
According to Responsible Gambling data Center, in 2024, more than 15,000 people contacted the hotline seeking help, which is more than a year more than in 20% earlier.
Causes of gaming addiction.
Gambling addiction develops under the influence of several factors:
- Biological – genetic predisposition and dysfunction of the brain's dopamine system.
- Psychological – stress, depression, low self-esteem, desire to escape reality.
- Social – accessibility of gambling, aggressive advertising, influence of the environment, lack of information about risks.
Treatment and prevention of gambling addiction.
Fighting gambling addiction requires a comprehensive approach. The following methods of help are available in Ukraine:
1. Psychotherapy.
Cognitive - behavioral
Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective methods. It helps you become aware of destructive behavior patterns, identify triggers, and learn to control your impulses.
2. Drug treatment.
In some cases, antidepressants and mood stabilizers are used to help combat anxiety and depression.
3. Self-help groups.
Gamblers Anonymous programs allow addicts to share experiences, receive support, and motivation for recovery.
4. Digital tools.
There are applications that block gambling sites, as well as online platforms for consulting with psychologists.
5. Educational initiatives.
Conducting lectures, seminars, and information campaigns among young people and their parents is an important element of prevention. The Responsible Gambling Center is actively involved in this.
The role of the state and society.
To effectively combat gaming addiction, joint efforts of specialists, the state, and society are necessary.
What is important to do?
- Strengthen control over gambling advertising.
- Increase transparency in the gambling business.
- Create additional state rehabilitation centers.
Society should also be aware of the seriousness of the problem and support initiatives aimed at helping addicts.
Gaming addiction is a serious disease that requires a comprehensive approach. Ukraine is taking the first steps in combating this problem, but there is still a long way to go.
It is necessary to combine the efforts of government agencies, businesses, and public organizations to create an effective system of assistance for people suffering from gambling addiction.
The Responsible Gambling Center urges everyone who is facing the problem of gambling addiction not to be afraid to seek help.
0
GAME ADDICTION IN UKRAINE: CURRENT SITUATION AND PATHS SOLUTION
Gambling addiction, or ludomania, is one of the most pressing problems of modern society, especially in the context of the rapid development of online gambling. In Ukraine, this problem has become especially noticeable after the legalization of gambling in 2020.
Despite the economic and social benefits of legalization – revenue and job creation – it has also led to an increase in the number of people suffering from pathological gambling.
According to research, about 3–51% of the population of Ukraine has a tendency to gambling addiction, and about 11% suffer from a severe form of gambling addiction.
The most vulnerable category is young people who actively use smartphones and the Internet. Online casinos, bookmakers and mobile applications with gambling are available 24/7, which makes them not only attractive, but also dangerous. People suffering from gambling addiction often face:
- financial problems;
- loss of job;
- destruction of family relationships;
- deterioration of mental health.
According to Responsible Gambling data Center, in 2024, more than 15,000 people contacted the hotline seeking help, which is more than a year more than in 20% earlier.
Causes of gaming addiction.
Gambling addiction develops under the influence of several factors:
- Biological – genetic predisposition and dysfunction of the brain's dopamine system.
- Psychological – stress, depression, low self-esteem, desire to escape reality.
- Social – accessibility of gambling, aggressive advertising, influence of the environment, lack of information about risks.
Treatment and prevention of gambling addiction.
Fighting gambling addiction requires a comprehensive approach. The following methods of help are available in Ukraine:
1. Psychotherapy.
Cognitive - behavioral
Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective methods. It helps you become aware of destructive behavior patterns, identify triggers, and learn to control your impulses.
2. Drug treatment.
In some cases, antidepressants and mood stabilizers are used to help combat anxiety and depression.
3. Self-help groups.
Gamblers Anonymous programs allow addicts to share experiences, receive support, and motivation for recovery.
4. Digital tools.
There are applications that block gambling sites, as well as online platforms for consulting with psychologists.
5. Educational initiatives.
Conducting lectures, seminars, and information campaigns among young people and their parents is an important element of prevention. The Responsible Gambling Center is actively involved in this.
The role of the state and society.
To effectively combat gaming addiction, joint efforts of specialists, the state, and society are necessary.
What is important to do?
- Strengthen control over gambling advertising.
- Increase transparency in the gambling business.
- Create additional state rehabilitation centers.
Society should also be aware of the seriousness of the problem and support initiatives aimed at helping addicts.
Gaming addiction is a serious disease that requires a comprehensive approach. Ukraine is taking the first steps in combating this problem, but there is still a long way to go.
It is necessary to combine the efforts of government agencies, businesses, and public organizations to create an effective system of assistance for people suffering from gambling addiction.
The Responsible Gambling Center urges everyone who is facing the problem of gambling addiction not to be afraid to seek help.
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