Title: Gaming Commission Raises Alarm on Gambling Addiction—Calls for Responsible Gaming Practices
In a powerful awareness campaign, the Acting Commissioner of the Gaming Commission of Ghana, Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo, has issued a clear message: gaming should be a source of entertainment, not suffering. Speaking at a recent event focused on mental health, Quainoo highlighted the alarming rise of gambling addiction in Ghana, urging individuals and gaming operators alike to embrace responsible practices.
A Call to Action
“We are not just regulators; we are also concerned about addiction,” Quainoo asserted. This sentiment was echoed during a sensitization program co-hosted by the Gaming Commission and the Mental Health Authority, marking May Mental Health Month. The event, themed “Promoting Responsible Gaming: Exploring the Linkage Between Mental Wellness and Gaming Addiction,” sought to educate and inform the public about the psychological toll of gambling.
Quainoo pointed out that the Commission is increasingly alarmed by the uptick in gambling issues, particularly affecting women. “Every week, we receive requests for self-exclusion from gambling… Gambling addiction is becoming a huge issue,” he lamented. This troubling trend serves as a reminder of the human cost associated with gaming, a theme that resonates deeply with biblical teachings on stewardship and responsibility.
Partnerships for Change
The Gaming Commission is committed to not only regulating but also supporting individuals afflicted with gambling addiction. Quainoo mentioned the collaboration with gaming operators in combating addiction, noting that these businesses are willing partners in promoting healthier gaming habits. “They understand the human cost; some even have relatives going through addiction,” he shared, paving the way for a collective approach to this pressing issue.
Currently, individuals struggling with gambling are referred to mental health institutions, but Quainoo advocates for investment in specialized rehabilitation centers in Ghana. “We need our rehab with psychologists and health professionals who will assist them,” he affirmed. This call for action aligns with biblical principles that advocate for care and restoration for those in need (Galatians 6:2).
Understanding the Psychological Impact
At the event, Dr. Daniel Adjei, a psychiatrist, elaborated on the devastating psychological effects of gambling addiction. He pointed out that individuals may suffer from depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts, affecting their personal and professional lives. “Addicts need assistance navigating the challenges of quitting,” Dr. Adjei emphasized, reinforcing the necessity of a supportive community in the recovery process.
This resonates with the biblical teaching found in 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” In times of struggle, community support is invaluable.
A Broader Perspective
As the Gaming Commission takes steps to address addiction, it invites everyone to reflect on their relationship with gaming and the potential impacts on mental well-being. Quainoo’s message serves as a vital reminder that it is not merely about regulation but about fostering an environment where entertainment remains joyful rather than burdensome.
Encouraging Takeaway
In a world increasingly entangled with options for escape, let us strive to guide one another toward healthier choices rooted in compassion and understanding. As we engage with forms of entertainment, remember the wisdom found in Proverbs 12:25: “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”
By keeping our gaming experiences in perspective, we not only safeguard our well-being but also honor the principles of community, support, and responsibility. Reflect on how you can support those affected by addiction and promote a healthier approach to gaming, thus fostering a culture that nurtures joy rather than sorrow.
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