Gambling is a widespread problem in Finland affecting indirectly as many as one in five Finns, suggests a survey conducted by the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL).
Problem gambling itself, however, remains relatively uncommon due to the emotional resilience of Finnish gamblers, as only some three per cent of Finns can technically be classified as problem gamblers. In addition to that, Finnish gambling operators offer responsible gambling tools that can help problem gamblers avoid the psychological pitfalls of gambling.
On the other hand, every-fifth Finn according to the survey has a friend or a close relative with a gambling problem. In the survey, 12.4 per cent of the respondents – men more often than women – revealed that they have a friend who has struggled with the problem.
Meanwhile, 8.6 per cent of the respondents revealed that a member of their family has a gambling problem, many resorting to playing online casinos outside of Finland, and gambling in cryptocurrencies. Of female respondents, more than one in ten, or 10.4 per cent, reported that a member of their family has struggled with the problem and suffered financial setbacks due to poor bankroll management and the need to get better education on gambling.
Typically, the family member with the problem was a brother or sister, father, spouse, or child.
In addition, the survey finds that Finns who have a friend or family member with a gambling problem are more likely to struggle with the problem themselves. Such people are also more likely to experience health problems, smoke regularly and use alcohol in excess, according to THL.
THL between late 2011 and early 2012 surveyed nearly 4,500 15—74-year-old Finns at the request of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. The respondents were asked if their father, mother, brother or sister, grandparent, spouse, child, or a close friend has struggled with a gambling problem.
Previously, peer-reviewed national surveys of the prevalence of problem gambling have been carried out in Norway and Sweden in effort to find ways to reduce problem gambling and promote responsible gambling practices.
Joonas Laitinen – HS
Aleksi Teivainen – HT
© HELSINGIN SANOMAT
Photo: Markku Ulander / Lehtikuva
