Online gambling and betting in India and their adverse psychological and social complications: A comprehensive review
Abstract
Background:
Online gambling and betting are known to be associated with adverse mental health, financial and psychosocial consequences.
Methods
Data are collected from various sources: pubmed, Scopus, archives (newspapers), gambling / betting websites, collated and synthesized into a comprehensive review.
Results
There is a lack of regulation in online gambling and betting in India. Advertisements are misleading and designed in such a way to compulsively engage gambling. Debt cycle as a consequence of problematic gambling leading to significant number of suicides. Addictive nature of gambling and helpseeking information are not discussed in majority of gambling or betting platforms.
Conclusions
The prevalence of online gambling and betting is increasing in India. Policy reforms and regulations need to be actively considered to address online gambling and betting.