Gambling Harms and the LGBTQ+ Community – Understanding the Unseen

Each February, LGBTQ+ History Month in the UK celebrates diversity, promotes equality, and highlights the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. At Ara Recovery4All, we are using this opportunity to shed light on a critical but often overlooked issue: gambling harms within the LGBTQ+ community.

While LGBTQ+ publications like Attitude magazine have started drawing attention to this growing concern, gambling’s impact on the community remains under explored in mainstream conversations. Few voices are addressing the unique risks gambling poses to LGBTQ+ individuals, leaving a significant gap in understanding and support.

Gambling: From Fun to Harm

For many, gambling is a source of entertainment, but when it becomes excessive or uncontrollable, the consequences can be severe. Understanding the spectrum of gambling behaviours can help individuals recognise potential problems and seek help early.

Gambling extends beyond traditional venues like casinos, bingo halls, and betting platforms, it increasingly manifests in gaming environments. Younger generations are particularly vulnerable, as games like Minecraft and Roblox often host unregulated systems that mimic gambling mechanics, exposing young people to unhealthy coping behaviours at an early age. Unlike traditional gambling, which typically has an age restriction of 18+, these platforms bypass regulatory safeguards, embedding harmful habits in impressionable users.

This issue is particularly concerning for LGBTQ+ young people, who often face unique stressors such as discrimination, identity struggles, and social isolation. These factors can make them more susceptible to using gambling-like mechanics as a means of escapism or coping. Without adequate safeguards, these platforms may exacerbate mental health challenges within this already vulnerable group. Relying solely on parental supervision is neither practical nor sufficient, underscoring the urgent need for systemic regulation and tailored support to protect all young people, especially those at greater risk.

The Gambling Spectrum:

1. Recreational Gambling

Occasional and controlled, often done purely for enjoyment.

2. At-risk Gambling

Gambling causes occasional issues, like overspending or stress. Behaviour may become more frequent or problematic.

3. Problem Gambling

Gambling begins to disrupt daily life. Relationships, finances, and well-being are significantly impacted.

4. Compulsive Gambling

An uncontrollable urge to gamble despite severe consequences. This often results in financial ruin, broken relationships, and emotional distress.

Are You at Risk? Reflect on These Questions:

1. Do you often think about gambling, plan your next session, or relive past experiences?

2. Have you tried to stop or cut back on gambling but found it difficult or impossible?

3. Has gambling caused problems in your relationships, work, or financial stability?

Answering “yes” to any of these questions may indicate a need for further reflection or support.

Gambling and the LGBTQ+ Community: What Do We Know?

Research on gambling harms within LGBTQ+ communities presents mixed results. Several studies suggest higher levels of gambling harm, particularly among gay men and LGBTQ+ youth. However further studies report lower gambling rates thereby offering no clear connection between sexual orientation and gambling. Nevertheless, emerging evidence points to significantly higher gambling harm among transgender and gender-diverse individuals compared to cisgender individuals.

Despite these findings, barriers to accessing support persist. These include stigma, lack of culturally competent services, and insufficient recognition of the unique needs of sexual and gender minorities. Addressing these barriers is essential for equitable and effective support.

Why Are LGBTQ+ Communities Vulnerable?

Several factors contribute to heightened vulnerability to gambling harm within LGBTQ+ communities:

Mental Stress: Societal rejection and discrimination often lead to isolation and anxiety. Gambling can become a coping mechanism, offering temporary relief but potentially spiralling into problem gambling.

Financial Struggles: Financial hardship is common, especially among younger LGBTQ+ individuals who may leave home to escape hostile environments. Gambling’s allure of quick wealth can deepen financial and emotional troubles.

Substance Use: Public Health England (2021) highlights a strong link between gambling harm and substance misuse. Higher rates of alcohol and drug use in LGBTQ+ communities compound these risks.

Barriers to Seeking Help

A lack of research into LGBTQ+ gambling harms limits the ability of support services to offer tailored assistance. Peer group environments may feel intimidating for individuals not ready to disclose their sexuality. Training for professionals and sensitive, specialised counselling are vital for bridging this gap.

Many LGBTQ+ individuals hesitate to seek help due to past negative experiences with healthcare and support services. Stonewall (2018) found that one in eight LGBTQ+ patients faced unequal treatment, and nearly one in four encountered discriminatory remarks from healthcare professionals.

The Way Forward

At Ara Recovery, we are tackling gambling harms in LGBTQ+ communities through a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Research: Conducting studies with LGBTQ+ clients and staff to understand their unique experiences and challenges.
  2. Service Improvement: As part of our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) action plan, we provide specialised training for staff to address the cultural needs of LGBTQ+ individuals effectively.
  3. Community Engagement: As part of our work Ara we are creating brave spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to foster open dialogue, reduce stigma, and encourage people to seek support.

Conclusion

Gambling harms in LGBTQ+ communities often go unseen, but through awareness, research, and inclusive practices, we can address these disparities. At Ara Recovery, our commitment to inclusivity ensures that our services are informed, supportive, and equipped to meet the unique needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. By shining a light on this hidden issue, we hope to pave the way for recovery, understanding, and a brighter future for all.

Reach out for assistance today

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling related harms or homelessness related to drug and alcohol addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Our team is here to support you on your journey to recovery.

Or call 0330 1340 286