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Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Online Gamers
Published on: November 9, 2019
Does your older adult client have a gambling problem?
Cindy Sullivan Kerber1, Emily Schlenker, Kari Hickey
1Mennonite College of Nursing, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790-5815, USA. ckerber@ilstu.edu
Pathological gambling is a growing concern, often hidden from healthcare providers. Early identification and intervention are crucial for managing gambling disorder and its associated health issues.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Health
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Pathological gambling is an increasing societal problem due to widespread availability and promotion of gambling opportunities.
- The disorder is often undiagnosed as individuals rarely disclose their gambling problems to healthcare providers.
- Nurses require knowledge of the physical and emotional indicators of pathological gambling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the symptoms, consequences, and comorbidities of pathological gambling.
- To highlight the importance of early identification and intervention by healthcare professionals, particularly nurses.
- To provide information on assessment tools and treatment options for pathological gambling.
Main Methods:
- Review of symptoms, consequences, and comorbidities associated with pathological gambling.
- Introduction of the Lie/Bet Questionnaire as a two-question screening tool for identifying pathological gamblers.
- Discussion of intervention and treatment strategies, including group therapy and environmental modification.
Main Results:
- Pathological gambling presents with various physical and emotional signs that may be overlooked.
- The Lie/Bet Questionnaire can aid nurses in identifying individuals with pathological gambling.
- Education on the risks and consequences of pathological gambling is a critical first step in management.
Conclusions:
- Pathological gambling requires increased awareness and recognition within healthcare settings.
- Nurses play a vital role in identifying and supporting individuals with gambling disorders.
- Interventions and treatments are available and effective for managing pathological gambling across the lifespan, with particular relevance to older adults.
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