From Hidden Harm to Systemic Reform: Rethinking Gambling, Substance Use, and Justice Pathways Through Recovery

This thesis explores connections between gambling, substance abuse, and crime in addiction recovery, focusing on how co-occurring disorders impact recovery journeys and systemic responses. Using a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative statistics and qualitative interviews, the research examines co-existing gambling and substance use disorders, recovery capital's role in long-term recovery, and personal experiences of recovery. It analyses three participant groups—Gamblers in Recovery (GAR), Substance Users in Recovery (SUR), and those recovering from both (SUGAR)—to identify addiction, crime patterns, and recovery capital. Gambling often goes unnoticed until financial or legal issues arise, delaying intervention and worsening outcomes. This has implications for recovery and public health strategies. The research highlights the need for integrated triage systems with gambling screenings in substance use frameworks for earlier detection and intervention. Recovery capital illustrates how personal and community resources affect recovery. Variations among the groups show distinct challenges, particularly for those with co-occurring addictions.
Furthermore, the research exposes inefficiencies in treatment and justice systems where gambling issues are overlooked. Policy recommendations advocate for integrating gambling screenings into health and justice systems to promote early intervention and shift from reactive to proactive measures. Findings endorse a collaborative strategy between public health and criminal justice, addressing interconnected addiction issues to support sustainable recovery. This research offers insights into gambling and substance use interrelations, guiding the creation of inclusive, person-centred policies while emphasising the social and economic benefits of integrated interventions, including lower recidivism and improved public health outcomes addiction.