snapshot summaries
Author(s): Håkansson, Anders ; Widinghoff, Carolina
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Year Published: 2021
Date Added: June 10, 2021
In this study, the researchers examined changes in gambling patterns around nine months into the COVID-19 pandemic in Sweden. A total of 2029 adults completed an online survey in November 2020. The results showed that 6% of participants gambled more and 4% gambled less. An increase in gambling was associated with more severe gambling problems, greater alcohol use, and higher mental distress. Moderate-risk and problem gambling were common among people who increased their gambling. Only 30% of people were aware of the temporary gambling regulations during COVID-19. Awareness was much higher among people with moderate-risk or problem gambling and those who had self-excluded before.