Dr. Shao-Hua Lu on increased gambling exposure and how it could cause a spike in gambling addictions
Gambling problems share many similarities with other addictive disorders. However, there are no visible signs or physical changes that will indicate a gambling problem. Instead, there are common behavioural, emotional, financial and health signs. Problem gambling is not just about losing money. Gambling problems can affect a person’s entire life. [Source: CAMH]
Dr. Shao-Hua Lu, a psychiatrist specializing in addictions, recently told The Straight.ca that the expansion of casinos such as the one proposed for B.C. Place increases the risk of children becoming gamblers later on in life. A study called Decoding British Columbian Youth and Gambling [opens to PDF] has suggested that there is a link between a parent’s gambling activity and their child’s attitude toward—and participation in—gambling.
The comments came amid controversy over plans to build an expanded casino in the heart of Vancouver, to be run by Las Vegas-based Paragon Gaming.
We speak with Dr. Shao-Hua Lu.
