Gambling and Smoking Treatment for Gambling Addiction

Research has shown that problem gambling and tobacco smoking are highly comorbid. Problem gamblers who smoke tend to: have more severe gambling problems, experience stronger gambling urges, have other mental disorders, bet larger sums of money, spend more time in gambling activities, and have greater financial problems. Accordingly, it might be helpful to reduce your smoking as well, while you are trying to get a grip on your gambling. Previous studies have treated gambling on its own or tobacco smoking on its own. To date, there has not been a treatment that has targeted treating both at the same time. Considering how often these conditions occur together, it is important to see if combining their treatment results in beneficial outcomes. In the current research, the researchers aim to design and test an online, self-help intervention for co-occurring problem gambling and tobacco smoking. It will draw on strategies from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) - both which have been shown to be successful in treating problem gambling and tobacco smoking. These outcomes will be compared to a group that receives treatment for problem gambling only. This research will provide insight into a potential new intervention for treating two highly co-occurring conditions.