Presentation Summary: Gambling disorders often go unrecognized in patients receiving care in Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs), despite their strong correlation with substance use disorders (SUDs). Recent SAMHSA guidelines highlight the importance of early screening and support for gambling problems to improve treatment outcomes. This presentation will delve into the shared risks between SUDs and gambling, explore barriers that prevent practitioners from addressing gambling issues, and provide actionable strategies for integrating gambling screening and intervention into OTP practices. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how addressing gambling behaviors can lead to better patient engagement and retention.
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants will:
Explain the relationship between gambling disorders and substance use disorders, including shared risk factors and clinical implications.
Identify common barriers that prevent gambling disorders from being addressed in OTP settings, including stigma and systemic limitations.
Design and implement brief screening tools and practical interventions to support patients with co-occurring gambling disorders.