VCU research in action: Understanding and treating problem gambling
Carolyn Hawley is analyzing the demographics and behaviors of gamblers to gain critical insights into more effective outreach and prevention strategies. By Joan Tupponce for VCU News Elizabeth Childress doesn’t remember a time from her youth when she wasn’t gambling. “I gambled my life, my freedom and my money every day,” Childress said. By the […]
Changing the Narrative
For more than 10 years, David L. Robbins has been helping veterans process their experiences in the military through writing as part of the Virginia War Memorial’s Mighty Pen Project. It’s not an uncommon strategy. Narrative therapy and writing exposure therapy have long been used to help people break down past traumas and heal by […]
In journal article, VPGH staff argue for inclusion of gambling disorder in the ADA
As the popularity of gambling grows—thanks to increased legalization, the integration of the gaming industry and U.S., sports culture, and easily accessible online gambling platforms—so does the number of people in need of help for problem gambling. However, many support seekers discover unexpected barriers to accessing the care and treatment they need, often due to […]
Humphrey Fellow studies link between stimulant use and problem gambling
Humphrey Fellow Hari Nugroho is spending 10 months at Virginia Commonwealth University researching connections between methamphetamines and problem gambling, as well as adolescent drug use, prevention, and treatment methodologies. As a physician and addiction counselor with the Indonesian government, Hari Nugroho has long sought to improve approaches to substance use treatment. However, 10 years ago, […]
VPGH researchers seek to understand experiences of peer recovery specialists
Peer recovery specialists (PRS) are often the first point of contact for support seekers who connect with the Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health (VPGH) through direct referral or after calling the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline. A PRS conducts an initial screening of support seekers, offers emotional support, fosters a sense of belonging and connection, […]
2024 Year in Review
Last year, the Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health received 562 new referrals, 90% of which were referred for treatment. In our annual report, we provide a look at who sought support and their long-term outcomes, as well as VPGH’s efforts to reach more individuals in need of services. Photo by Lukas Blazek on Unsplash
