EXPERIENCES OF PRIMARY CARE PSYCHOLOGISTS IN IDENTIFYING AND MANAGING GAMBLING DISORDER IN ALMATY AND ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN: CHALLENGES AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE
Background. Gambling addiction is becoming an increasingly common problem among adolescents and adults. Early diagnosis and prevention are key to avoid social and psychological consequences. As primary healthcare (PHC) serves as the first point of contact for patients, their families, and physicians, this study aims to examine the experiences of PHC psychologists in the detection, prevention, and management of gambling addiction across different age groups.
Materials and methods. We conducted a qualitative study with primary care psychologists to explore their experiences in identifying, preventing, and managing gambling disorder. Semi-structured interviews covered patient demographics, prevalence, diagnostic tools, prevention, support, and challenges. Data were analyzed using Dedoose software to identify themes, patterns, and barriers, providing insights for improving clinical practices, training, preventive programs, and policy interventions in gambling disorder care.
Results. Interviews with ten primary care psychologists (aged 25–45, 3 months–15 years’ experience) revealed that gambling disorder is most prevalent among 18–24-year-olds, with adolescents 11–18 and adults 25–45 at moderate risk. Psychologists reported it often co-occurs with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Identification relies on interviews, standardized questionnaires, and observation, while prevention and intervention include education, therapy, family work, motivational interviewing, and collaboration with social and medical services. Specialists also noted a recent increase in female patients and emphasized that many individuals only seek help after family intervention. Loneliness and online engagement were identified as key vulnerability factors.
Conclusions. Gambling disorder is most prevalent among young adults and often co-occurs with mental health issues, highlighting the need for early identification and targeted interventions in primary care. Future efforts should focus on enhancing psychologist training, expanding preventive programs, and strengthening collaboration with social and medical services to improve detection, support, and treatment outcomes.
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Kosherbayeva G., Kozhageldiyeva L., Samabayeva A., Imamatdinova A., Alekenova N. Experiences of primary care psychologists in identifying and managing gambling disorder in Almaty and Astana, Kazakhstan: challenges and implications for practice // Nauka i Zdravookhranenie [Science & Healthcare]. 2025. Vol.27 (5), pp. 136-142. doi 10.34689/SH.2025.27.5.017Related publications:
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