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Researchers seek to improve treatment for gambling addiction

By Staff Writer

Gambling addiction is an ever-growing problem, particularly in areas that have legalized some forms of gambling. However, help may be on the way. Officials from the University of California, Los Angeles recently announced that researchers from the school will help rehab facilities study the best methods for helping addicts.

The researchers will look at ways to bring more evidence-based approaches into the treatment of gambling addicts. They believe that their recommendations could help improve the quit rate while aiding in relapse prevention.

Officials said that they are partnering with California public health authorities on the project, which will give them access to data that may play a vital role in understanding gambling addiction, allowing them to develop more effective treatments for the condition.

While the researchers believe that current strategies for treating gambling addicts are beneficial, they said that they feel more can be done to improve outcomes of therapy and help individuals stay abstinent.

According to Gamblers Anonymous, there is no cure for the addiction. However, with treatment, individuals may be able to learn to control their habit.