| Abstract [eng] |
Gambling addiction in Lithuania is a public health issue that has received little attention, a problem that only emerged following the legalization of gambling in the country in 2001. To date, the prevalence of this addiction has not decreased, yet there is a lack of research addressing this issue. The recent increase in attention from healthcare professionals toward gambling addiction, along with stricter regulation of the gambling industry, reflects the need to address this pressing issue, which the Lithuanian healthcare system faces to a significant extent. The objective is to review changes in the situation regarding gambling addiction in Lithuania. Aims: based on the scientific literature, to review the concept, origins, and related factors of gambling addiction, its epidemiology, and applicable treatment methods; to review the history of gambling, legal regulation, epidemiological indicators of gambling-related disorders, and the experience of mental health professionals in the context of pathological gambling in Lithuania; to discuss emerging issues in the prevention and treatment of gambling addiction in Lithuania. Methods: a review of the results of representative public opinion surveys conducted between 2013 and 2025 and available in the scientific literature; A review of legislation in force in Lithuania regulating the gambling industry and the provision of assistance to individuals with gambling addiction; An overview of the activities of institutions and organizations in Lithuania providing assistance for gambling addiction; An overview of the results of a survey of healthcare professionals—psychologists and psychiatrists—working with addiction disorders in Lithuania. An analysis of the sources revealed that there is a lack of methodologically sound studies examining the prevalence of gambling addiction in Lithuania; however, the observed prevalence gambling addiction over time is increasing. A trend toward a younger age of onset among those who begin gambling is observed, which is related with a poor prognosis for the potential disease; this trend may be partly linked to changes in the most popular forms of gambling, with online gambling becoming increasingly prevalent. In an effort to reduce the prevalence of gambling addiction, changes to legal regulations set to take effect in the near future have been implemented at the political level; however, issues regarding the application of preventive measures and the lack of effective assistance in the country remain relevant. |
