In Ukraine, 8.5% of the population admitted to playing online casinos or betting on sports, according to a sociological survey commissioned by the Razumkov Center. The data highlights a worrying trend: 27% of Ukrainians personally know people suffering from gambling addiction or families where gambling addicts live.
The survey found that out of 2,027 respondents, 85% said they had no involvement with gambling. However, the results also showed that the number of people who knew someone addicted had increased to 24%, with 10% knowing online casino players and 14% knowing someone who bet on sports.
Expert Serhiy Romanyuk, an economist and psychologist, noted that respondents who gambled may not have been completely honest due to the stigma associated with the problem. He also noted that the real number of people who may be addicted may be much higher, as many gamblers do not discuss their hobbies with others.
When asked about acquaintances who have encountered the problem of gambling addiction, 70% of respondents said they had no such experience. However, 27% reported that they personally know people or families who have problems with gambling. Romaniuk emphasizes that this may indicate serious financial difficulties for these people.
"Statistics show that one gambler brings financial problems to 5-12 people not related to gambling. Before starting to take out loans or pawn property, a gambler often turns to his close circle for financial help," explains Romanyuk.
He also notes that the growth of gaming addiction leads to social problems: the number of divorces is increasing and families are breaking up. Players who suffer from gaming injuries often lose the meaning of life and avoid social contact, turning into "herded animals.".
According to research, people with gambling problems in the United States often have various mental disorders. Constant stress negatively affects all body systems, increasing the risk of developing diseases.
The survey was conducted from June 20 to 28, 2024, and its theoretical margin of error does not exceed 2.3%. These statistics emphasize the importance of addressing the problem of gambling in Ukraine, as the problem of gambling addiction is becoming increasingly relevant.
