Journeys through gambling: pathways to informal recovery

This study aimed to examine temporal benchmarks in informal gambling recovery pathways, looking at the broader context of the experience for individuals, and at the experiences of young adults.

It distinguishes between two pathways to recovery. The first is self-directed, and involves recognition of the gambling problem primarily by the gambler. In the externally directed pathway, gamblers were prompted by others or external circumstances to recognise gambling as problem.

The findings of this study suggest that highlighting difficulties in achieving life milestones such as long-term relationships, travel and children may be an effective way to reach young adult problem gamblers. The research also showed that honesty with family and friends and accountability was seen as a crucial element of recovery.

It was found that employers played a role in recognising and responding to problem gambling for some participants, suggesting further work to support employers in responding to problem gambling in the workplace could be beneficial.

The study also showed that recovery strategies were consistent between young and older adults.