The Department of Veterans Affairs has declared that the number of active or retired members of the US army showing signs of problem gambling is rising significantly. In some regions of the US, more than 10 percent of military members are problem gamblers. Concerned about the surge in gambling addiction within the US army, the Department of Veterans Affairs initiated research on the issue. Currently, the army is conducting a large , with results expected by the end of 2024. Preliminary findings indicate that military members are not only more vulnerable to gambling-related disorders compared to civilians, but are also less likely to report them and seek help. Heather Chapman, a clinical psychologist and director of the national gambling treatment programme for the Department of Veterans Affairs, told CNBC: “All of a sudden, we started to see a lot of people with gambling problems calling and asking for some help.”

Slot machines on military bases

revealed that over 3,100 slot machines were installed in US military bases abroad. These slot machines are viewed as a recreational activity that boosts troop morale – and generate more than $100 million in revenue per year for the army. Soldiers as young as 18 can gamble in some of these foreign countries. Meanwhile, slot machines are not permitted on military installations within the US.

Targeting the military

Many gambling operators actively target the military. In Washington state, seven casinos opened less than 20 minutes away from one of the largest military bases in the US. Additionally, casinos and sportsbooks often send targeted promotions to military members, especially around Independence Day. Some casinos even offer free-play to soldiers. However, as awareness of the issue grows, some operators have stopped targeting military members altogether. Others have gone further by funding programmes to address the problem.

The journey toward recovery

Dave Yeager, a former Army Staff Sergeant, published a book to help other military personnel facing problem gambling: Fall In: A Veteran with a Gambling Addiction. In this book, he explains how his addiction cost him his family and his position in the army, detailing incidents such as stealing petty cash and bankrupting his family to fuel his addiction. Yeager shares how some counsellors and commanders in the army failed to understand the severity of his illness. His book also covers his journey toward recovery. Kevin Wensing, a retired US Navy Captain and Veterans Advocate, said, “Dave is an inspiration for millions who have become collateral damage from gambling and continue to be tempted by the massive advance of online sites that feed addictive behaviour. His story is a beacon of hope and the lessons he offers will help all who are committed to raising problem gambling awareness and providing the needed tools to avoid harm.”

Treating soldiers

The Department of Veterans Affairs operates two treatment centres and collaborates with many civilian-run programmes across the country. To encourage soldiers to seek help for gambling addiction, the military has reiterated that no soldier will be penalised for coming forward and seeking treatment. Additionally, the Department of Defence now uses the annual health physical to look for signs of gambling addiction.

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