Gambling problems seen in 10% of veterans About 8% of U.S. veterans are problem gamblers who report between one and four gambling-related problems, and an additional 2% are pathological gamblers with five or more such problems, a study of 2,185 veterans in Department of Veterans Affairs care reveals. Problem Gambling and Veterans: Risk and Protective Factors Studies have shown that problem gambling may be more prevalent among military veterans than the general population. What are the risks? What are the protective factors? Problem Gambling among Georgia Veterans in Drug Court Rates of problem gambling and pathological gambling are much higher among veterans and military recruits. A recent study was conducted which assessed problem gambling in drug court clients. A sub-sample of these participants indicated they had served in the military and were evaluated regarding gambling issues and behaviors. Combat veterans fall prey to gambling addictions at an alarming rate. Where's the military when the chips are down? While officials in federal courts have gained an increased understanding of combat-related PTSD in recent years, a seemingly related mental illness - pathological gambling - remains largely overlooked, despite a growing body of scientific research suggesting that gambling addictions are alarmingly common among servicemen returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. This 2008 study of 31,000 Air Force recruits found approximately 9% met criteria, which is indeed significantly higher than the general population. Veterans and problem gambling: A review of the literature While there are plentiful opportunities for veterans and enlisted personnel to gamble in the United States and overseas, many members of the military do not have access to treatment for gambling problems and may face disciplinary action after seeking help. Therefore, greater attention needs to be paid to this problem by military policy makers and counselors, and community based treatment providers. Increased efforts at problem gambling prevention as well as the expansion and improvement of existing treatment programs may help reduce the prevalence of problem gambling among service members. Problem gambling and the implication for physicians About 8% of U.S. veterans are problem gamblers who report between one and four gambling-related problems, and an additional 2% are pathological gamblers with five or more such problems, a new study reveals. Dr. Joseph J. Westermeyer IV discusses the implications for physicians.  | | Gambling Problems Among Veterans |
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