Health

Medical Director: Gambling Addiction Rising Among Young People

Published

12 months ago

March 22, 2025

Delvardo Emmanuel

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Gambling addiction among young people in The Bahamas is becoming a growing concern, with experts warning of its connection to substance abuse, mental health issues, and even suicide. Medical professionals are pushing for urgent interventions as new data reveals the impact of gambling disorder on the country. Delvardo Emmanuel has more.

Dr. Sean Knowles, medical director of The Bahamas Department of Corrections and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, is sounding the alarm on the rising cases of gambling addiction, particularly among young people.

He says the link between gambling, substance abuse, and mental health issues is stronger than many realize and intervention is crucial.

Gambling among school students is becoming a growing concern, with many young people engaging in betting activities at an alarming rate.

Medical professionals warn that early exposure to gambling could lead to long-term addiction and other mental health issues.

Gambling addiction, often hidden in plain sight, has long been a silent struggle for many Bahamians. But now, medical professionals are working to quantify its true impact.

Dr. Knowles, who has worked extensively with substance abuse patients, emphasizing the strong connection between gambling disorder and substance use.

Dr. Knowles says gambling disorder, like other behavioral addictions, can lead to severe mental health issues.

The link between mental health challenges and suicide rates is also raising alarms, with the country already seeing six suicides in just three months.

Dr. Knowles emphasizes that mental health services must be expanded across the country–from Abaco to Inagua–to truly make a difference. Education, awareness, and accessibility, he says, will be key in turning the tide.