Support for neurodivergent people in gambling harm services

GambleAware has introduced a comprehensive set of resources and an accompanying research report aimed at improving support for neurodivergent individuals who may be experiencing gambling-related harm. The initiative is positioned as an evidence-based response to emerging data indicating that people with conditions such as autism and ADHD may face an elevated risk of harmful gambling behaviours, often linked to specific cognitive and behavioural characteristics.

The organisation’s latest findings, developed in collaboration with IFF Research and Ara Recovery for All and supported by the University of Bristol, highlight the need for specialist therapeutic approaches that account for neurodiversity. The new material includes guidance for practitioners, case studies, training modules and practical tools that support more accessible, personalised, and responsive care.

This article explores the context behind the initiative, the research driving the development of these resources, the barriers identified in existing support structures, and the principles recommended for improving services in ways that reduce risk and strengthen outcomes for neurodivergent people.

The growing focus on neurodiversity within gambling harm research

Over recent years, interest in the intersection between neurodiversity and gambling has increased substantially. Researchers, treatment providers, and advocacy organisations have been working to better understand how cognitive patterns associated with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence may contribute to different gambling experiences and potentially higher vulnerability.

GambleAware’s report suggests that this interest reflects a developing recognition that standard models of treatment may not fully accommodate the needs of people who process information differently, manage emotions differently, or rely on unique coping strategies. While the organisation emphasises that neurodivergence itself does not cause gambling harm, certain traits—when combined with social, environmental or personal factors—may increase risk exposure.

According to the research, neurodivergent people may be more likely to use gambling to cope with isolation, boredom, anxiety, or difficulties navigating social situations. Others may be drawn to the sense of order and predictability offered by structured gambling formats, or may experience difficulty disengaging from focused activities once a pattern or habit is established.

These observations align with existing academic literature noting that impulsivity, hyperfocus, and sensory preferences can influence gambling behaviour. However, GambleAware’s report aims to go further by documenting lived experiences, practical barriers to support, and the specific service adaptations required to improve treatment access.

Understanding the unique characteristics that can influence behaviour

The report outlines several characteristics that may be relevant when considering why neurodivergent individuals can be disproportionately affected by gambling harm. It stresses that these characteristics vary widely and should never be treated as universal traits. Instead, they may form part of an overall pattern that can influence an individual's relationship with gambling.

Impulsivity and executive functioning differences

Many individuals with ADHD report challenges relating to impulse control and decision-making, particularly in contexts where immediate rewards are present. Gambling products, especially those designed for rapid play, may appeal to individuals who find the instant feedback engaging or stimulating.

Hyperfocus and repetitive engagement

Hyperfocus, often observed in people with ADHD and autism, can cause individuals to become intensely absorbed in one activity for long periods. While this can be a strength in some areas, it may also result in extended gambling sessions or difficulty recognising when to stop.

Need for structure, predictability and routine

Some neurodivergent individuals gravitate towards activities that provide stable, predictable rules. Certain gambling formats may deliver this sense of structure, giving a temporary feeling of stability or control even when financial risk is present.

Coping mechanisms for social and emotional challenges

Gambling may also function as a coping strategy. Some individuals may use it to manage social anxiety, to escape from overwhelming environments, or to create a sense of routine. The report stresses that such patterns are not unique to neurodivergent communities, but they may interact differently with the cognitive or emotional profiles associated with neurodivergence.

Barriers neurodivergent people face when seeking help

One of the central themes of the report is the significant difficulty neurodivergent people may face when trying to access support. The research suggests that many individuals encounter a combination of practical, emotional, and systemic obstacles that can discourage or prevent them from seeking help at an early stage.

Low awareness of specialist services

Some respondents reported limited knowledge of treatment pathways or uncertainty about whether existing services could accommodate their needs. This lack of awareness can delay intervention and contribute to increased harm.

Stigma and fear of judgement

Concerns about misunderstanding, stigma, or negative perceptions may discourage individuals from approaching treatment providers. For some, past experiences of being judged for neurodivergent traits can undermine trust and reduce willingness to engage.

Communication barriers

Differences in communication styles can create challenges during assessment and treatment. Some individuals may find verbal communication overwhelming or may struggle with abstract questions used in therapeutic settings.

Sensory sensitivities

Traditional support environments, including group sessions or busy clinics, may be uncomfortable for individuals with heightened sensory sensitivities. Noise, lighting, or social pressure can negatively affect engagement.

Inconsistent service adaptation

While many support organisations aim to be inclusive, the research indicates that neurodiversity awareness across services can vary widely. Without clear training and consistent frameworks, practitioners may find it difficult to provide tailored care.

New resources aimed at improving accessibility and effectiveness

In response to these findings, GambleAware has released a suite of new materials designed to strengthen support for neurodivergent individuals. The resources include:

• Professional training modules
• Practitioner toolkits
• Illustrated case studies
• Guidance on adapting communication styles
• Recommendations for sensory-appropriate environments
• Insights from individuals with lived experience

The materials were produced in collaboration with IFF Research and Ara Recovery for All, with academic support from the University of Bristol. According to the organisations involved, the objective is to fill a gap in evidence-based guidance and ensure practitioners have access to practical tools that can be applied immediately in their work.

Six principles to guide improved therapeutic support

The report outlines six key principles that practitioners can use to deliver more effective and accessible support. These principles are intended as general guidance rather than prescriptive rules, recognising that neurodivergence presents differently across individuals.

Understanding diverse communication needs

Practitioners are encouraged to adopt flexible communication strategies, such as offering written materials, allowing more processing time, or adapting questioning styles.

Ensuring clarity in communication

Clear, direct language and structured explanations can make treatment feel more accessible and predictable.

Promoting autonomy

Supporting individuals to make their own decisions helps build trust and enables clients to engage at a pace that suits them.

Considering sensory needs

Adjustments to lighting, sound, or room layout can significantly improve comfort and focus during sessions.

Encouraging self-directed approaches and peer networks

Peer support and self-guided strategies may appeal to those who prefer independent learning or shared lived experience.

Comprehensive staff training in neurodiversity

Increased training ensures practitioners can recognise diverse needs and provide respectful, personalised care.

Comments from GambleAware leadership

GambleAware CEO Anna Hargrave commented on the report’s significance, stating:
“The new report highlights the complex link between neurodivergence and gambling. Characteristics of neurodivergence like impulsivity, hyperfocus, social difficulties and a need for stimulation drive gambling behaviour and increase harms, while stigma, shame and lack of tailored support further isolate neurodivergent people and make it harder for them to seek help.”

She further emphasised the role of the new materials, explaining:
“The resources we have produced are designed to support therapists and practitioners working with clients who experience both gambling harms and neurodivergence. They address a critical evidence gap in understanding how gambling harms affect neurodivergent people and how treatment can be tailored most effectively to ensure it is as effective as possible.”

A step toward more inclusive gambling harm services

The release of these resources marks a significant step toward more inclusive and responsive public health strategies within the regulated gambling environment. While the report acknowledges that further research is needed, it provides a structured foundation for improving therapeutic practice and reducing barriers that may prevent individuals from accessing help.

The initiative underscores the importance of service providers adopting flexible, empathetic, and informed approaches that account for diverse cognitive and sensory needs. By promoting better awareness and equipping practitioners with targeted tools, GambleAware aims to support safer pathways to treatment and reduce the risk of gambling harm across the neurodivergent community.

Conclusion

GambleAware’s initiative represents a careful and considered effort to strengthen the support framework available to neurodivergent individuals who may be at risk of gambling harm. By grounding its approach in research, lived experience and specialist collaboration, the organisation has emphasised the importance of tailored communication, accessible service design and practitioner awareness. While the report makes clear that neurodivergence does not inherently lead to gambling harm, it highlights how certain cognitive or behavioural traits may interact with gambling environments in ways that increase vulnerability for some individuals. The newly developed resources aim to address these complexities by offering practical guidance that can enhance professional practice and reduce barriers to treatment. As further research develops and service providers continue to improve their understanding of neurodiversity, these tools contribute to a broader public health goal: ensuring that support is inclusive, respectful, and able to respond effectively to diverse needs within the community.

FAQs

What does neurodivergent mean in the context of gambling harm?
It refers to individuals whose cognitive processing differs from typical patterns, such as people with ADHD or autism, who may have unique support needs.

Are neurodivergent people more likely to experience gambling harm?
Research indicates that certain traits associated with neurodivergence can increase risk, but risk varies across individuals and circumstances.

Does neurodivergence cause gambling harm?
No, neurodivergence itself does not cause harm. A combination of personal, environmental and behavioural factors shapes risk levels.

Why did GambleAware create these new resources?
They were developed to address identified gaps in specialist guidance and to improve accessibility and effectiveness of support.

Can practitioners use the resources without prior neurodiversity training?
The materials are designed for broad use, but additional training can enhance understanding and application.

What kinds of tools are included in the new resources?
They include practical toolkits, case studies, communication guides and training modules.

Do the resources replace existing treatment methods?
No, they supplement existing frameworks by adding guidance tailored to neurodivergent individuals.

How can services better support sensory needs?
Adjustments such as quieter spaces, controlled lighting, or reduced visual stimulation can improve comfort.

Are group support sessions suitable for neurodivergent clients?
Suitability varies. For some, group settings work well, while others may prefer one-to-one or self-directed support.

Is more research needed in this area?
Yes, the report notes that further study is important to deepen understanding and strengthen evidence-based practices.