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Fall 2005 |
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H
e a l t h P r o m o t i o n
Resource kit to
help physicians help problem gamblers
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Submitted
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Physicians who understand
problem gambling, all of its complexities and available resources, are
better equipped to identify a patient with a gambling problem and to
refer them to an appropriate service.
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by Renee Ryan |
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Physicians often represent a problem
gambler’s first point of entry when they are looking for help within
the health care system. As problem gambling can be well hidden, it
may be especially difficult to identify. There are a number of
reasons:
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Frequently, the patient will not
recognize that they even have a gambling problem that can be treated
and, therefore, they will present with other troubles;
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Due to issues of shame, a problem
gambler may choose not to disclose information related to a gambling
problem; and,
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The symptoms of a gambling problem may
be very difficult to notice as compared to a substance use problem.
The signs of a gambling problem can go undetected for a long time.
Problem gambling is an issue that affects
all areas of a person’s life. It is not only a financial problem; it can
also have physical, psychological and emotional impacts. Problem
gambling will affect a person’s health but the patient will not always
connect their health problems to their gambling behaviour. This is where
the physician’s knowledge of problem gambling can be beneficial.
Physicians who understand problem
gambling, all of its complexities and available resources, are better
equipped to identify a patient with a gambling problem and to refer them
to an appropriate service.
The Department of Health and Community
Services is currently developing an information package about problem
gambling for all general and family practitioners in Newfoundland and
Labrador. This kit will include general information about problem
gambling, the physician’s role, a brief screening tool and resource
information, including a listing of addictions services offices across
the province.
This information kit will be distributed
to physicians during Addictions Awareness Week, which runs from November
20-26, 2005.
For more information about problem
gambling, contact Renee Ryan,
provincial addictions consultant.
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