Review of the First Year of an Overseas Military Gambling Treatment Program

This study provides descriptive information and preliminary first-year outcome data on the only overseas military gambling treatment option currently available. Implemented in January 2003 within the Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program, U.S. Naval Hospital, Okinawa, Japan, gambling treatment was developed as a specific track within the overall substance abuse program. The present study explores the various considerations and requirements for setting up such a program, as well as a description of individuals seeking gambling treatment and preliminary outcome data. Participants consisted of all gambling referrals (N = 35, 26 males; mean age, 33.2 years; SD = 8.93) obtained over the first year that gambling services were offered. A significant degree of depression, suicidality, and substance abuse problems were observed in the sample. Results revealed that the gambling program was easily implemented within an established substance abuse program. The program was effective in preventing suicides in both military members and eligible beneficiaries and was effective in facilitating the retention of military members with gambling problems.