Gambling problems, risk factors, and implications in Australian veterans

Utilising responses from over 3500 transitioned Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, this is believed to be the first comprehensive study of gambling problems in recently transitioned veterans in Australia.

The study aimed to explore the relationship between gambling, and transitioning from the military in ADF veterans, taking a specific look at levels of gambling problems, risk factors, and links between trauma, suicidality, and gambling harm.

Data for this project was collected as part of the Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme, the most comprehensive study undertaken in Australia on the impact of transitioning out of the military.

Findings

The study found that Australian veterans are a high-risk group in relation to experiencing gambling harm, and experience gambling harm at higher levels than the broader Australian community.

Among transitioned ADF members, 13.4 per cent reported at least some gambling problems, including 4.6 per cent with clinically significant levels of problem gambling, and 8.8 per cent with levels of at-risk gambling.

Groups that were particularly vulnerable to gambling problems included veterans who were male, younger, unemployed, from junior ranks, or had been medically discharged.

Rates of gambling problems were comparable to rates for harmful drinking (11.2 per cent) and alcohol dependence (6.4 per cent) in this population.

Veterans classified as problem gamblers recorded high rates of suicidal ideation (43.9 per cent) and plans or attempts (19.5 per cent). Those classified as at-risk gamblers were at an increased risk of probable psychiatric disorders and other mental health problems.

Help-seeking rates for veterans experiencing problem gambling were low, and 97.9 per cent of veterans classified as problem gamblers who sought help reported their main reason for seeking care was non-gambling related issues.

Implications

The study found that gambling problems among veterans are both common, and under-recognised relative to other common mental health conditions. The researchers point out a need for gambling harm prevention strategies that support those within, and outside, veteran-focused support services.

Given the link between mental health concerns including alcohol dependence, depression and PTSD, and gambling problems, targeted screening of veterans with these conditions for gambling issues should be considered.