Intersection of Gambling and Alcohol Use Disorder: Social Acceptance and Risk

Presenter:  Ken Wolfson

Intersection of Gambling and Alcohol Use Disorder: Social Acceptance and Risk

Summary:

There is a relationship to alcohol use and gambling disorder due to social acceptance and availability. Alcohol is frequently linked to positive activities like socializing, unwinding, and celebrating, which helps normalize its consumption. Over recent decades, gambling has become less stigmatized, but this increased social acceptance can also contribute to greater risk of addiction. Additionally, the marketing and advertising strategies of the alcohol and gambling industry have been instrumental in promoting social acceptance. This training will discuss the ways to reduce harm, identify who is at risk, and resources for recovery.

Objectives:

· Identify the risk factors, similarities and differences amongst gambling and alcohol use disorder.

· Normalize the conversation surrounding gambling, recognizing the social acceptance similar to alcohol, and ways to reduce harm.

· Utilize the DSM-5 to formalize a diagnosis of Gambling Disorder, a Substance-Related and Addictive Disorder.

· Discuss the real-life experiences of addiction and recovery from the Center’s first Certified Peer Recovery Specialist.

1.5/Category 1 CEU's