About the report
Healthwatch Essex published this report in April 2022.
Healthwatch Essex is an independent charity that listens to people’s experiences of health and care services. It uses this feedback to help improve services across Essex.
The report looked at the experiences of people affected by gambling, drug and alcohol addiction. This included people in recovery and family members who had been affected by someone else’s addiction.
Researchers gathered information through interviews, case studies and discussions with support organisations and online communities.
Key findings
Addiction and mental health are closely linked
Many people said addiction was connected to poor mental health.
Some people used gambling, drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma or low self-esteem. For some, addiction became worse during difficult periods in their lives.
Early exposure can increase risk
Many participants said they were introduced to gambling or alcohol at a young age through family, friends or social situations.
This made these behaviours seem normal and sometimes delayed people recognising that they needed help.
Stigma stops people seeking support
Many people felt ashamed or worried about being judged.
Some were concerned about how addiction could affect their family life, work or relationships.
Women often described additional worries about parenting and safeguarding concerns.
Access to support is not the same for everyone
Participants said waiting times could be long, and support services were not always easy to access.
Many felt there was less support available for gambling addiction than for drug or alcohol addiction.
GPs can play an important role
Some people felt that gambling addiction was not always recognised during GP appointments.
Participants said clear advice, information and signposting from healthcare professionals could help people get support sooner.
Peer support helps recovery
Support from people with lived experience was seen as valuable.
Many participants said peer support reduced feelings of isolation and helped them feel understood.
Women also highlighted the importance of support groups designed specifically for women.
Connection helps people recover
Many people said loneliness and isolation increased the risk of relapse.
Strong relationships, community support and social connections were seen as an important part of recovery alongside clinical treatment.
Recommendations
The report recommends:
- raising awareness of gambling harms alongside drug and alcohol addiction
- reducing stigma and treating addiction as a health issue
- improving access to gambling, drug and alcohol support services
- helping GPs identify addiction and signpost people to support
- expanding peer-led and lived experience support programmes
- increasing support tailored to different groups, including women
- improving partnership working between health, care and community organisations
- focusing on prevention and early support as well as crisis intervention
Conclusion
The report shows that addiction is complex and can affect many areas of a person’s life.
People’s experiences highlight the importance of early support, easy access to services and compassionate care. The findings also show that reducing stigma and improving community support can help more people access the help they need and support long-term recovery.
Read the full report on the Healthwatch Essex website