Icarus Behavioral Health Nevada will expand its gambling addiction treatment services to better serve the Las Vegas community and address a “burgeoning problem” in gambling and betting across the US.
According to Icarus Behavioral Health, access to gambling addiction care is still a "critical need” in the US, due to the “growing demand” for specialized treatment programs designed specifically for gambling disorders.
"Our expanded services reflect our commitment to providing accessible, evidence-based care for one of the most underserved addiction populations," a representative of Icarus Behavioral Health said.
"Gambling addiction often goes unrecognized and untreated, leading to devastating financial, emotional and family consequences. We are dedicated to changing that reality for Las Vegas residents."
The organization stated Las Vegas presents “unique challenges” for those who develop problem gambling behaviors due to their proximity to casinos and “normalization” of gambling in daily life.
The expanded program will incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, individual counseling, group support sessions and family therapy components. The initiative will also provide specialized support for co-occurring mental health conditions, which were said to “frequently accompany” gambling addiction.
The spokesperson continued: "As wagering options become more accessible, we are seeing more people and families looking for help sooner, but unsure where to start.
"This expansion is about making that first step easier. We are increasing access to evidence-informed care that treats gambling addiction as a legitimate behavioral health condition, not a personal failure."
Icarus Behavioral Health stated early warning signs of gambling addiction include a preoccupation with the offering, increasing bet amounts, unsuccessful attempts to stop and lying about gambling activities.
Birches Health appointed Andrew DiGiacomo as its new SVP of Strategy on January 12, having previously served as National Provider Network Contract Innovation Director for Cigna-Evernorth Health Services