Gambling disorder is a serious condition that has profound consequences for the individual and the people around them (O’Gara, 2018). Rapid advances in online technology in recent years have seen online gambling in particular become more prevalent. Although accurate data on the prevalence of gambling disorder in Ireland is not available (at time of publication), it is likely that the prevalence has increased with the increase in online gambling. It is the view of the College that gambling disorder should be considered a major public health concern in Ireland which needs to be urgently addressed under the following areas:
- Gambling advertising
- Gambling control legislation
- Education about gambling disorder – both public and professional
- Treatment services
- Research