Gambling addiction is often thought of as a challenge faced predominantly by men, but emerging evidence suggests that an increasing number of women are falling into its grip. Clare Donegan, who operates EmpowerHer, provides vital counseling services for women in Ireland and Northern Ireland affected by gambling. She notes that many of her clients are caregivers, often mothers, who seek a way to escape their burdens. Donegan observes, “A lot of the time it’s women in caregiving roles. It’s the mother or the person looking after someone with a disability.” This insight shines a light on the specific motivations behind female gambling behaviors.

The Quest for Escape

For many women, the underlying motive for gambling is a desire for escape rather than the allure of profit. Donegan elaborates that “escape gambling is much more of a women’s thing.” Unlike their male counterparts, who may analyze complex data concerning horses or athletes, women often gravitate towards fixed-odds games. These offer instant gratification and a temporary numbness from the demands of their daily lives. In an era where responsibilities can feel overwhelming, such gambling alternatives become increasingly appealing yet dangerously addictive.

Shifting Stigmas and Increasing Access to Help

The stigma surrounding gambling, particularly among women, has historically been a barrier to seeking help. Henrietta Bowden-Jones, NHS England’s national clinical advisor on Gambling Harms, recounts a time when no women attended her clinic when it first opened in 2008, despite outreach efforts like offering free childcare. At that time, societal perceptions heavily stigmatized women who struggled with problem gambling, causing them to suffer in silence due to fears of judgment or potential consequences, like child custody issues.

Encouragingly, Bowden-Jones notes that women are now more willing to come forward and access treatment options. “Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy work for both men and women,” she asserts. Moreover, she emphasizes the positive impact of treatment provided by the NHS, which has successfully helped numerous individuals reclaim their lives.

The Evolving Demographics of Female Gamblers

While the profiles of women seeking help have transformed, Bowden-Jones points out a significant trend—the age of women seeking assistance is decreasing. Initially, her clientele primarily consisted of older women, often widowed or lonely and resorting to gambling as a means of coping. Now, younger women are entering the fray, with the data from the National Clinic revealing that women are increasingly gambling online (80% of female gamblers) and engaging primarily in fast-paced games like slot machines. “The gender gap is closing, and women are starting earlier, developing compulsions that can be as severe as men’s,” she notes.

Industry Regulations and the Call for Reform

Reform advocates like Duncan Smith perceive the recent 2023 white paper as a positive step toward addressing the gambling crisis. He calls for tighter stake limits, affordability checks, an independent ombudsman, and more stringent advertising restrictions. As Smith points out, “No one wants to see it—it leads directly to harm, and children are being targeted.” This acknowledgment of gambling’s potential dangers is crucial in framing future regulations.

However, not everyone is convinced that these reforms will make a meaningful impact. Critics argue that proposed changes merely serve to perpetuate the industry’s existence while failing to address the core issues contributing to gambling-related harm. Issues like co-regulation—a model that allows the industry to self-regulate—are seen as inadequate. Activist Gaskell critiques this model, asserting that it places too much trust in industry players, depriving victims of adequate consumer protection.

The Psychological Toll of Gambling Addiction

The stories of women impacted by gambling often reveal the psychological torment that accompanies this addiction. Chrissy, a 66-year-old former gambler who now feels empowered to share her story, describes her experience as one of manipulation and devastation. “The most awful thing about it is that the person that you were is no longer,” she laments, emphasizing the significant toll gambling takes on identity and mental health.

Many affected individuals experience symptoms akin to PTSD or find themselves on the ADHD spectrum due to the addictive patterns instilled by gambling. The mechanisms employed by gambling companies often resemble those used in social media and processed food marketing, preying on vulnerabilities and promoting compulsive behaviors.

The Challenge of Balancing Public Health with Industry Interests

The debate surrounding gambling reform necessitates a critical examination of public health priorities versus corporate interests. Critics warn that any reforms must consider the broader implications of gambling addiction and prioritize health over profitability. “How do you compensate a family for the loss of a son?” questions Cassidy, further stressing that preventative measures must be implemented before harm occurs, rather than seeking remedies post-factum.

The struggle against gambling addiction, especially among women, is complex and steeped in societal issues. The urgency for meaningful reforms has never been more pronounced as women increasingly come forward to reclaim their lives and break the stigma. The path ahead entails balancing the responsibilities of the gambling industry with a commitment to robust regulations that protect the vulnerable, ensuring that both the voices and experiences of those affected are at the forefront of the conversation.

Conclusion: Hope on the Horizon

As gambling continues to evolve in the digital age, women’s narratives are shifting from silence to empowerment. Acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges they face is crucial in fostering a safer environment. Collective advocacy for effective regulation holds promise, and with it, a potential for healing and recovery for countless individuals ensnared in the web of addiction. The time has come to listen, learn, and act decisively to stop the cycle of harm that has persisted for far too long.

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The gaming industry is a vibrant sector, particularly in regions where casino culture thrives. A recent report by the Division of Gaming Enforcement sheds light on the performance of casino hotel properties in September 2024, presenting a mixed picture of revenue growth and decline in different segments. This article delves into the latest figures, providing insights into the evolving landscape of gaming revenue, including casino wins, internet gaming, and sports wagering.

Casino Win Overview

The total Casino Win for nine casino hotel properties stood at $230.6 million for September 2024. This figure marks a decline of 6.5% compared to the $246.5 million registered in September 2023. Such a decrease raises questions about the factors influencing the traditional gaming segment, especially as the industry continues to emerge from the pandemic’s long-lasting effects. Year-to-date statistics show that the Casino Win has reached approximately $2.15 billion, indicating a slight decrease of 0.9% when compared to the same period last year.

Understanding the trends in Casino Win is crucial for assessing the health of brick-and-mortar properties. Despite the slight downturn, the figures suggest a yearning for in-person gaming experiences that may be intricately tied to social interactions and the thrill of live play.

Internet Gaming Growth

On a more positive note, Internet Gaming Win has seen substantial growth. For September 2024, casinos and their digital partners reported a win of $208.1 million, reflecting an impressive 27.1% increase compared to $163.8 million in September 2023. This remarkable growth trend continues into the year-to-date statistics, which indicate a total Internet Gaming Win of $1.73 billion—up by 23.2% from $1.41 billion in the prior year.

The surge in online gaming revenue can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of innovative gaming platforms, engaging social features, and broader accessibility of internet services. As the gaming environment shifts towards digital formats, it is increasingly clear that online platforms are carving out a significant share of the market.

Sports Wagering Revenue Insights

The sports betting segment also showcased favorable outcomes. In September 2024, Gross Revenue from Sports Wagering was reported at $119.6 million, representing a 7.6% increase from $111.1 million a year earlier. Moreover, for the year-to-date figure, Sports Wagering Gross Revenue totaled $835.4 million, marking a substantial increase of 17.8% from $709.0 million reported for the previous year-to-date period.

This growth in sports wagering can largely be attributed to an increase in sporting events, consumer interest in betting activities, and the introduction of favorable legislation in various states that has broadened market access. The evolving perception of sports betting as a mainstream entertainment option has also played a significant role in driving these numbers.

Total Gaming Revenue Insights

When examining the overall landscape, Total Gaming Revenue for the reported period is quite promising. The total stands at $558.3 million for September 2024, which is a 7.1% increase from $521.5 million in September 2023. Looking at the year-to-date performance, Total Gaming Revenue reached an impressive $4.72 billion, showcasing a robust 10.1% increase from the previous year’s $4.29 billion.

This remarkable growth across the broader gaming ecosystem suggests a resilient market, particularly as it adapts and responds to various external pressures and changes in consumer behavior. The integration of online gaming and sports wagering in traditional gaming venues augments the overall experience, ensuring consistent engagement from diverse customer segments.

Conclusion

The latest figures from the Division of Gaming Enforcement provide a comprehensive snapshot of the gaming industry’s varied dynamics as of September 2024. While there are concerning declines in certain traditional casino revenues, the growth in internet gaming and sports wagering demonstrates the industry’s ability to evolve and adapt in an increasingly competitive landscape. Stakeholders—ranging from operators to policymakers—must pay close attention to these trends as they navigate the future of gaming, ensuring they capitalize on emerging opportunities while addressing the challenges foreseen in the brick-and-mortar segments.

For further updates and business news, feel free to explore more at NJB News Now.

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As the NFL season rolls on, it’s that time of the week again when analysts and fans turn their eyes to the action ahead. This week, our own Zac Jackson takes a breather from documenting the Cleveland Browns’ rollercoaster journey to join forces with Chicago columnist Jon Greenberg for a fresh perspective on the upcoming games. While Jackson is well-acquainted with the Browns’ often tumultuous run, Greenberg is in pursuit of a different goal: assembling a bankroll to purchase the Chicago White Sox. Together, they dive into the betting lines, offering insights and predictions that could shape your weekend viewing.

NFL Insights: The Battle for Ohio

Their conversation opens with a focus on the highly anticipated matchup between the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals. Greenberg sets the stage, noting the unusual dynamics at play given the rivalry’s intensity and the current sentiments surrounding both teams. "I can’t fathom how excited Cleveland is for the ALCS; did they cancel school?" he quips, highlighting the multifaceted sports scene in the area. Jackson, however, shifts the focus back to the gridiron with pointed observations about Deshaun Watson’s rocky tenure in Cleveland, raising questions about his popularity.

Greenberg’s Predictions

Greenberg, with a solid record of 5-2 from last week, is bullish on the Bengals. He confidently stakes his claim with Bengals -5.5, dismissing the notion that Joe Burrow will falter in Cleveland. The conversation evolves as they touch on the game being potentially low-scoring, with Jackson predicting an Under 41.5 given both teams’ defensive strengths. He notes, "The Browns will show up and play defense. It will be a slog," underscoring the expectation of a gritty battle rather than a high-scoring affair.

Jackson’s Thoughts

Jackson, who has been grappling with his own inconsistent betting results (20-20 overall), prefers to let the defenses dictate the pace of the game. His approach mirrors the overall sentiment of cautious optimism surrounding the hometown team. Beyond the AFC North rivalry, Jackson expresses interest in a few other matchups, including Seattle +3 in a potential shootout, and Niners -1.5 against the Chiefs, signifying that he believes it might be time for Kansas City to stumble.

A Deep Dive into College Football

The dialogue takes an exciting turn when the focus shifts to college football, where Jackson and Greenberg share their insights about the upcoming games. Greenberg appears apprehensive about the betting landscape this week, stating that he "doesn’t love the board." Yet, his brave foray includes taking Vikings -1.5 over the Lions, and a keen eye on the underdog Boilermakers as they face the Ducks.

Unders and Upsets

Jackson confidently endorses the Bowling Green-Kent State under 55.5, anticipating a defensive battle especially given Bowling Green’s expected use of backup quarterbacks. Alongside this, he highlights the Iowa State -13 wager, tapping into the Cyclones’ offensive prowess—a prediction fueled by UCF’s shaky defensive record.

Greenberg, always the skeptic, rides the fence with his selections but shows an appreciation for Jackson’s logic, particularly regarding Kentucky-Florida under 43 and Army -15.5 against East Carolina. Their banter reveals the complexities of college football betting, filled with potential surprises and strategic considerations.

Final Thoughts: The Sports Betting Landscape

As the talk meanders towards the big-time matchups and betting strategies that dominate the weekend, Jackson and Greenberg showcase how personal experiences and insights shape their choices. This week, the Browns and Bengals take center stage in a game that could define any team’s season—offering both the pain and joy that sports can deliver.

In their playful exchanges, both writers reveal their unique perspectives on being connected to their teams while adding elements of camaraderie and competition to their predictions. Their combined knowledge offers football fans and bettors a dynamic view of the unfolding action, reinforcing the idea that whether you’re placing bets or simply watching games, every match brings its own set of stories, stakes, and surprises.

As the weekend approaches, tickets to these games might be scarce, but the thrill of betting and the enjoyment of NFL action are just getting started. With the Battle for Ohio on the horizon and a weekend of college football loaded with potential upsets, fans and bettors alike have plenty to watch for.

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In a devastating turn of events, the city of Berat has been shaken by the tragic suicide of a 27-year-old man, Dorian Soto. Reports indicate that Soto took his own life by consuming a significant amount of phostoxin, a toxic substance, following his alleged loss of five million lek (approximately €40,000) in gambling—a grave reflection on the detrimental influence of gambling addiction and mental health issues.

The Incident

On the morning of the tragedy, emergency services received an urgent call concerning Dorian Soto’s condition. He was transported from his home in the "Martyrs of the Nation" neighborhood to a local hospital in critical condition. Upon arrival, medical staff began intensive therapy; however, despite their best efforts, Soto succumbed to the poison within an hour. This heartbreaking outcome not only marks a profound loss for his family and friends but underscores the urgency surrounding the conversation on gambling addiction, mental health, and the supports available in communities.

Gambling Addiction: A Silent Epidemic

Gambling addiction is often referred to as a silent epidemic, one that can lead individuals down dark paths. Many who find solace—or thrill—in gambling often face a never-ending cycle of debt and despair. In the case of Dorian Soto, reports indicate that he had recently experienced significant financial loss through gambling. The pressures and mental strain associated with losing such a large amount of money can push individuals to their emotional limits.

Financial losses can lead to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and hopelessness. For those battling addiction, the correlation between gambling losses and mental health issues is stark. Many find themselves trapped in a haze where they believe that returning to gambling will bring them the wealth to overcome their financial woes—an illusion that can result in catastrophic decisions.

The Mental Health Crisis

Soto’s tragic decision is a stark reminder of the intersection between gambling and mental health. Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, are often exacerbated by financial stressors. The inability to cope with such overwhelming emotions can lead individuals to consider drastic measures, such as Soto did. In Albania, as elsewhere, awareness and understanding of mental health struggles remain in their infancy. There is a growing need for accessible mental health services that can intervene before tragedies occur.

The Role of Community Support

The community of Berat is now left to grapple with the repercussions of this tragic event. Support systems, such as counseling services for those affected by gambling and mental health professionals who can offer resources, are critical. Education about gambling addiction and the signs to look out for in oneself or loved ones can be invaluable preventive measures.

Furthermore, it is essential for local authorities and organizations to advocate for responsible gambling practices and to provide avenues for help. Initiatives that encourage open conversations about mental health can help diminish the stigma that often surrounds these issues and make reaching out for support more normal.

Conclusion

The loss of Dorian Soto is a somber reminder that beyond each statistic of gambling addiction lies a human story filled with dreams, aspirations, and tragedy. It calls for urgent action not only towards tackling the gambling epidemic but also towards fostering mental health support systems that can help prevent future tragedies. The city of Berat—and indeed all communities—must come together to ensure that no one battling these struggles feels they must face them alone.

This heartbreaking loss underscores the crucial need for developing compassionate dialogues around gambling, enhancing mental health awareness, and encouraging community support for those in despair.

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