Gambling remains prevalent in Finland, with around 70% of people aged 15–74 reporting participation at least once a year. While most do so without issue, problem gambling is a spectrum which includes moderate‑risk and full gambling disorders, affected around 4% (approximately 151,000 individuals) as of 2023, up from ~3% in 2019. Men and young adults are hit hardest: about 6.6% of men and 1.8% of women suffer from gambling problems, with those aged 18–29 impacted most (6.9%).
Notably, 13% of the population are considered “at-risk” gamblers. The number of those who gamble regularly or across multiple platforms, such as brick’n’mortar casinos or online casinos and sports betting sites, increased from 10% in 2019. Online gambling dramatically heightens the risk: frequent online or mixed online/offline players, especially those gaming daily or weekly across four or more formats, are far more likely to develop problems.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Gambling addiction often hides beneath the surface. Several red flags include changing patterns, secrecy, and escalating financial stress:
- Preoccupation with gambling: Spending excessive time thinking about betting or strategizing.
- Tolerance: Needing to gamble larger amounts to achieve the same thrill.
- Failed attempts to stop: Efforts to cut back or quit repeatedly failed.
- Lying or hiding activity: Concealing gambling from loved ones or lying about extent.
- Financial harm: Borrowing money, selling possessions, or accruing debts.
- Risking relationships and responsibilities: Gambling causing missed work, poor academic performance, or broken family ties.
In Finland, common risk factors include low self-esteem, impulsivity, mental health issues, alcohol misuse, ADHD, or using gambling to escape stress. Among students, polytechnic attendees showed higher rates of gambling harm, especially tied to alcohol use and internet addiction.
Harms Beyond the Gambler
Gambling addiction doesn’t just impact the individual, it ripples into families, friendships, work, and society. In Finland:
- Roughly 733,000 people, nearly one in five are “affected others,” including partners, friends, or coworkers.
- These individuals report financial strain, emotional distress, relationship breakdowns, and workplace disruptions.
- Family members (especially partners and parents) report the most significant emotional and financial trauma.
Finland frames gambling addiction first and foremost as a public health issue, with the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) coordinating research, prevention, and treatment efforts under the Lotteries Act.
Key steps taken include:
- Mandatory player ID introduced between 2021–2024 to track play
- Pre‑set loss limits initiated in 2017
- Age restrictions: All gamblers must be at least 18 years old since 2010–11.
- Gambling Policy Programme (launched May 2022) sets long-term goals until 2030 to reduce harm, improve early detection, destigmatize treatment, and enhance support networks.
- The Act on Substance Abuse Prevention (2015) explicitly includes gambling harm as part of addiction policy.
Help & Support Channels
Those struggling or affected by someone who is, can access a variety of Finnish services:
- Peluuri: Finland’s national gambling helpline and online portal. Confidential phone support (0800 100 101) is available weekdays, alongside self-help programmes, advice, and material.
- Pelirajaton: Peer‑support network offering group meetings, online support, helplines, empowerment courses, and volunteer training.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A global 12‑step, peer‑support model active in Finland for those seeking a structured fellowship.
- Wellbeing services counties: Regional mental health and substance abuse services include gambling treatment under public healthcare.
- NGOs such as EHYT and Sosped/ Pelirajaton provide prevention campaigns, training for professionals, and support to families.
ALSO READ: Finland’s 2026 Gambling Reform Could Disrupt Industry
How to Seek Help
- Self‑assessment: Online tools and reflection can help gauge the extent of the problem.
- Contact a helpline: Peluuri offers immediate, free, confidential advice.
- Join peer support: Pelirajaton and Gamblers Anonymous foster community and shared experience.
- Seek formal treatment: Regional wellbeing services offer counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Involve loved ones: Open communication and shared counseling can support recovery and repair relationships.
Gambling addiction in Finland is a growing public health concern, especially among men and younger adults, and its impacts extend far beyond the individual gambler. With rising rates and nearly a million affected others, Finland is responding through policy reform, expanded support systems, and stronger harm-reduction strategies. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact Peluuri or your regional wellbeing services county, no one has to face this alone.