Research in Action: Public - University of Calgary

More documents

Recommendations

Info

$LATEX for Philosophers - University of Calgary$

Increasing the odds of recovery from problem gambling. Problem gambling destroys families and lives — and it has increased significantly in Alberta since the introduction of video lottery terminals in 1993. Yet only 10 per cent of those with a gambling problem seek treatment. Part of the problem is that programs for problem gamblers were initially modelled on those for alcohol and drug addicts. Now, thanks to the work of University of Calgary psychology professor and addictions expert Dr. David Hodgins, new treatment programs are being developed to help gamblers reduce or eliminate their habit. “Problem gambling has devastating consequences for a small but significant proportion of the population. Gamblers are at high risk for stress-related illnesses and psychiatric disorders. They often have problems at work, in their relationships and are at increased risk for suicide,” says Hodgins. “Offering non-traditional methods of support has the potential to drastically increase the number of people who recover.” Problem gamblers change their behaviour using innovative self-directed program Hodgins’ research is the first in the world to explore and respond to problem gambling. He first studied recovered gamblers to gain insight into the strategies they used to overcome addiction. He then recruited problem gamblers to participate in his research study, which included a prototype of a self-directed workbook with varying levels of motivational support. The Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research funded the project, which followed individuals for two years. Results were encouraging — 30 per cent of participants stopped gambling completely and most others in the study significantly reduced their habit. The self-directed workbook and support program developed by Hodgins is now available through AADAC, the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission. Hodgins has presented his research findings and recovery program in both Brazil and New Zealand, where it may soon be implemented. Oregon has adopted the program as a statewide treatment option and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration considers the program a promising treatment for problem gambling. www.addiction.ucalgary.ca www.abgaminginstitute.ualberta.ca www.aadac.com University of Calgary Research in Action 20 “Gambling is a behaviour which can lead to addiction. To support recovery, we need to offer a range of strategies and tools to help people make effective change in their behaviours. Dr. Hodgins' workbook and motivational intervention is an excellent example of the benefits of a cost-effective, step-wise approach to helping problem gamblers and their families.” Dr. Nady el-Guebaly, director, Addictions Program, Calgary Health Region; chair, Alberta Gaming Research Institute.
Research in Action: Health + Wellness Helping problem gamblers help themselves: The first researcher in the world to explore and promote self-recovery from problem gambling, Dr. David Hodgins has developed a self-directed workbook and support program for problem gamblers. 21
Page 1 and 2: Issue 2: Fall 2006 Education Enviro
Page 3 and 4: health + wellness pg 18 public poli
Page 5 and 6: Research in Action: Education Explo
Page 7 and 8: Research in Action: Education Reint
Page 9 and 10: Research in Action: Education Ancie
Page 11 and 12: Research in Action: Education Empow
Page 13 and 14: Research in Action: Environment Exp
Page 15 and 16: Research in Action: Environment Imp
Page 17 and 18: Research in Action: Environment Inc
Page 19 and 20: Research in Action: Environment Con
Page 21: Research in Action: Health + Wellne
Page 25 and 26: Research in Action: Health + Wellne
Page 27 and 28: Research in Action: Health + Wellne
Page 29 and 30: Research in Action: Public Policy E
Page 31 and 32: Research in Action: Public Policy I
Page 33 and 34: Research in Action: Public Policy E
Page 35 and 36: Research in Action: Public Policy D

Research in Action: Public - University of Calgary

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?