Here are some quick facts about women and gambling.

March is both Women’s History Month and Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Too often in the medical field, women’s health needs are not prioritized the same as men’s health. Women often experience a higher rate of misdiagnosis regarding their health because of false comparisons to men, lacking medical research, and stigma surrounding their perceptions of their bodies. One area of great need within Nicasa Behavioral Health Services’ practices is connecting women with resources to help with problem gambling behaviors.

Nicasa Behavioral Health Services believes that equitable healthcare happens when individuals are seen and heard for who they are, and their lived experiences help guide their treatment. In part, Nicasa would like to share some facts surrounding the differences in perceptions of women who gamble versus men who gamble. Much of what we do know about these behaviors is underreported due to pervasive myths and stigma that surround gambling and treatment options, and how they impact women.

Fact: It is estimated that 33% of individuals who experience problem gambling are women, but that is believed to be an underestimate.
While it is true that this statistic is underreported for both genders, women are more evasive with reporting their concerns more so than men. In many ads and promotions, it is often men seen as the primary focus, while women are portrayed as a bystander in these videos and images, or, more recently, they are attracting other women to participate in gambling as a way to make “quick money,” to cover bills, groceries, and other household expenses. The contrast of these images gives a different tone that men gamble for pleasure, and women gambling is altruistic and only as a means to support themselves and others. That their gambling is seen as “beneficial” and furthering their social roles as family caretakers, and fulfilling a role as a provider and nurturer, without creating a focus on themselves or their needs in these scenarios.

Fact: Women are more drawn to gambling for the social aspect of it.
The reality is women are drawn into the social aspect of gaming. Often, there is a degree of social isolation that many experience in navigating a professional career, home life, and making ends meet. More often, many women are turning to small home business to run after their regular 9-5 work to provide additional income for their households, which leaves little time to engage in hobbies and other social activities. Games like Bingo and casino environments are usually more social gatherings, and a way to connect with others outside of the family.

Fact: Problem gambling often emerges after a lifestyle change (most commonly between 40-65 years of age).
The reverse can also be true, sudden changes in routine and lifestyle can increase disordered gambling behaviors. Divorce, children moving out, retirement, and/or changes in professional and personal dynamics can cause some women to explore gambling more often. Often it is negative feelings of isolation and displacement coupled with free time that does not have a productive regular outlet.

Fact: Women are less likely than men to seek help for their problem gambling.
Many people still view a “problem gambler” as being uniquely a masculine challenge and characteristics. The reality is problem gambling can affect anyone at any time. Because of social stigmas surrounding domesticity and a woman’s role, women are less likely than men to report their concerns. If they do report a concern, they are also far less likely to seek treatment for it because of fear of misogyny and male-dominated support groups leaving them feeling more isolated and unsafe.

Nicasa Behavioral Health Services understands that these barriers socially and systemically are real obstacles to women who are experiencing concerns with their gambling. It takes all of us, healthcare providers, allies of recovery, those in recovery, community stakeholders, and citizens, to bring forth this change in our community so that everyone can feel comfortable talking about gambling and the harm they have experienced. Participating in gambling is becoming more normalized, and with it the discussion of recovery from gambling must come to the forefront.
If you or a loved one are experiencing concerns with gambling, Nicasa is here to help. Nicasa also offers a support group to help family and friends of those affected by gambling harm as well. If you would like to learn more about our gambling support and treatment programs, contact 847-546-6450 ext. 8 or gambling@nicasa.org.