New research from GambleAware has shown that neurodivergent people may be at increased risk of experiencing gambling-related harms. They often use gambling as a coping mechanism. In response, new resources have been released to improve support for neurodivergent people affected by gambling harm. These materials are based on research, lived experience, and expert recommendations.
Six key principles have also been identified as the foundation for support and treatment of gambling addiction among neurodivergent people.
Neurodivergence refers to the way people perceive and process information, and it is commonly associated with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia. Neurodivergence affects communication, learning, sensory responses and problem-solving. An estimated 15% of the UK population is neurodivergent.
GambleAware noted that neurodivergent individuals may engage in gambling “to cope with social isolation, as a stress-management mechanism, or due to increased impulsivity, hyperfocus, and a preference for rules, order, and routine”.
The charity also stated that neurodivergent people often face obstacles when seeking support, including lack of awareness of available services, as well as stigma and fear of judgment.
Accordingly, six key principles were formulated as the basis for support and treatment:
- Understanding and adapting to the diverse communication needs of neurodivergent people.
- Ensuring clarity and simplicity in communication.
- Providing support that promotes autonomy and independence.
- Creating an environment that takes sensory needs into account, such as reducing the risk of overstimulation.
- Promoting self-directed approaches such as self-help tools and informal support (including peer networks).
- Training staff in neurodiversity awareness and various communication methods.
“The new report highlights the complex link between neurodivergence and gambling,” commented Anna Hargrave, CEO of GambleAware.
“Characteristics of neurodivergence like impulsivity, hyperfocus, social difficulties, and a need for stimulation drive gambling behaviour and increase harms, while stigma, shame, and lack of tailored support further isolate neurodivergent people and make it harder for them to seek help.”
In response to the identified issues, IFF Research and Ara Recovery for All developed new resources based on GambleAware-funded research carried out in partnership with academics from the University of Bristol.
The purpose of the research was to determine whether neurodivergent people face a higher risk of gambling harm, identify the key drivers behind this harm, analyse barriers to formal and informal support, and establish best practices and principles for support, treatment, communication and engagement.
Commissioned by the charity, the new materials aim to help provide tailored support to neurodivergent people experiencing gambling-related problems. They include training materials, toolkits and case studies designed to boost practitioner confidence, reduce barriers, and promote inclusive and effective care.
Hargrave added: “The resources we have produced are designed to support therapists and practitioners working with clients who experience both gambling harms and neurodivergence.
“They address a critical evidence gap in understanding how gambling harms affect neurodivergent people and how treatment can be tailored most effectively to ensure it is as effective as possible.”
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