A symposium has been held at the Vrapče Psychiatric Clinic in Croatia presenting new tools for treating gambling addiction developed through the EU Erasmus+ project “Play Your Cards Right.”
The project brings together partners from Croatia, Romania, Spain and Portugal, focusing on educating professionals while developing modern approaches to treating gambling addiction.
The symposium programme covered topics related to understanding gambling disorder, family-based approaches, community work, financial counselling and the practical application of therapeutic tools developed through the project.
According to the presented data, about 60% of adults in Croatia have engaged with some form of gambling at least once, while problematic gambling behaviour is present in 2.2% of the population. Among minors, 33.4% have played games of chance at least once.
Psychiatrist and project leader Mateja Grizelj Benussi commented on the project stating: “Professionals working in mental health and addiction today more than ever need concrete knowledge, quality tools and strong support networks.”
She added that international and cross-sector cooperation has helped develop innovative approaches and practical tools. These are designed to support professionals in identifying gambling addiction earlier, improving treatment and providing longer-term support for those affected.
The event brought together more than 100 experts from the field of mental health and helping professions.
In a separate development from the country, earlier this year, the Croatian Association of Gambling Operators (HUPIS) engaged with major international payment providers to prevent transactions to unlicensed operators.
The trade body held constructive discussions with Revolut, Skrill and Paysafe, to block transactions to unlicensed operators.
Croatia’s updated gambling regulations took effect at the start of the year and introduced a national self-exclusion system, raised licence fees, restricted advertising and significantly reduced the number of physical betting venues
