The readiness of the healthcare system for new challenges and the definition of further measures to counter gambling addiction were discussed at a meeting chaired by Minister of Health Azhar Giniyat, El.kz reports.
3% of the adult population of the globe suffer from gambling addiction, while about 12.5% play regularly.
And only 8% admit their problems. In Kazakhstan, about 36,000 people suffer from gambling addiction.
On behalf of the Minister, the preparation of a draft of the National System for the Prevention of Addictions (chemical and non-chemical) will begin, within the framework of which a number of measures will be implemented.
Gambling addicts will be treated with confidentiality. It is planned to register only in the internal information systems of medical organizations.
In addition, the current clinical protocols, standards of treatment, quality of medical care should be applied in private drug treatment centers. In this regard, it is planned to regulate their activities.
As noted by the participants of the meeting, the fight against gambling addiction, as well as drug addiction, should be comprehensive, with the participation of all interested government agencies, the private sector and society as a whole.
If you or your loved ones are faced with this problem, you can contact regional mental health organizations or the website of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Mental Health www.mentalcenter.kz