Gender-specific risk factors for gambling-related suicidal ideation: Evidence from a help-seeking population

People suffering from gambling problems are at a heightened risk of suicidal behaviours and ideations. Emerging evidence suggests that gambling-related suicidality may be more common amongst women, those with gambling-related debt and those gambling with fast-paced products such as electronic gambling machines. This study aims to investigate associations between gambling-related suicidal ideations and risk factors using logistic regression analysis. The analyses are conducted separately for women and men. The data consisted of questionnaire responses from 2,800 help-seekers (1,746 men, 1,054 women), who enrolled in a Finnish online help service for gambling problems during 2019-2024. The survey focused on the following questionnaire measures: self-reported suicidal ideation (MARDS), problematic gambling products, gambling-related debt, at-risk alcohol use (AUDIT-C), problem gambling (NODS) and social support. 19.8 percent of all respondents reported suicidal ideation (25.5% of women, 16.4% of men). Both genders reported online EGMs, online casino products and land-based EGMs as causing most harm. However, we found no statistically significant associations between gambling products and suicidal ideation. Gambling-related debt was a significant risk factor for suicidal ideation for both genders. At-risk alcohol use was a risk factor for suicidality amongst women. Lack of social support was a risk factor for both genders. In conclusion, we found that some risk factors for gambling-related suicidal ideation can differ across genders. Gambling-related debt can increase the risk of suicidality for both genders. Policy action is needed to prevent significant financial harm from gambling.