Ireland Confronts Rising Problem Gambling Rates Among Women with New Recovery Services
Problem gambling has emerged as a significant issue in Ireland, with the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) reporting that 130,000 adults, or one in every 30 people, meet the criteria for “problem gambling.” An additional 279,000 individuals engage in harmful gambling, with women accounting for a notable proportion of those affected.
Gambling Stigma Hits Women Harder
Among the population dealing with gambling-related problems, 45.5% are women. However, many women face a unique set of challenges due to the stigma surrounding gambling addiction, which discourages them from seeking help.
This has led to a disproportionately low number of female problem gamblers reaching out for support.
Extern Problem Gambling Network Launches EmpowerHer Recovery Network
In response, the Extern Problem Gambling Network, which offers free counseling and helpline services, has introduced a new program to address the specific needs of women. The EmpowerHer Recovery Network aims to provide women with a confidential and judgment-free space to discuss their struggles with gambling and begin their path to recovery.
Claire Donegan, the lead on the EmpowerHer project, emphasized that many women avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment: “My hope is that by providing this free, safe space, we can help to break down barriers and provide women with the motivation they need to take that first step towards recovery.”
Rising Gambling Rates Among Women
The ESRI study revealed a sharp rise in harmful gambling among women in Ireland. In 2023, 2.9% of Irish women were affected by gambling-related harm, a tenfold increase from 2019, according to a Health Research Board study.
The EmpowerHer Recovery Network is designed to address this surge, offering services such as peer coaching, network group meetings, and confidential recovery spaces.
To further support women, the network has also launched a podcast series featuring personal stories of women impacted by gambling. This initiative is aimed at reducing the sense of isolation many female problem gamblers experience.
“Badly Needed” Service for Women in Ireland
Barry Grant, a counselor with the Extern Problem Gambling Network, emphasized the urgent need for the new service: “This service is badly needed in Ireland, not only to reduce stigma but also to encourage help-seeking.” He highlighted the fact that only 10% of those seeking gambling recovery services in Ireland are women, reflecting the deep-rooted stigma that prevents many from taking the first step.
A Call for Greater Awareness and Regulation
The ESRI warns that Ireland may be underestimating the true extent of gambling harm in the country, which has serious implications for public health and the role gambling plays in Irish society.
Minister of State Justice James Browne has been working on long-awaited reforms to the country’s gambling regulations ahead of the next general election, aiming to create a safer environment for all affected by gambling-related harm.
