Exploring health consequences of problem gambling among adult gamblers in Maseru

Abstract

Problem gambling is globally recognised as a public health issue requiring funding for prevention. It includes gambling behaviours that compromise, disrupt, or damage an individual’s life and relationships. This study adopted Pearlin’s (1981) stress process model to understand the health consequences of problem gambling among adult gamblers in Maseru, focusing on sources of stress, coping mechanisms, and health implications of problem gambling. The research study was qualitative in nature and employed a case study design. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews among twelve participants who had been gambling for over two years. The participants were purposively selected and data were thematically analysed. The findings of the study revealed, as the primary stressor experienced by adult gamblers, the financial strain, which was a result of debt accumulation, misdirection of funds, lying about gambling behaviour and stealing money. Gamblers reported social support and maladaptive coping mechanisms as the main coping strategies employed to reduce stress caused by problem gambling.The health implications identified as a result of problem gambling included depression, mood swings, and headaches. The study concluded that problem gambling in Maseru is associated with heightened risks to psychological, emotional, and physical health. It therefore emphasises the urgent need for policy interventions, recommending that the government of Lesotho strengthen regulations on gambling activities. This study adds to the ongoing debate and existing literature regarding the health consequences of problem gambling