Gordon Moody has welcomed today’s BBC article which powerfully highlights the lived experiences of women affected by gambling-related harm and, crucially, the important questions these experiences raise about the relationship between hormones, risk-taking and addiction.
The BBC report, published today, shares first-hand accounts from women who describe heightened gambling urges at certain points in their menstrual cycle, as well as during other periods of hormonal change. These testimonies reflect patterns that Gordon Moody clinicians have observed for a number of years within specialist treatment services.
In response to these emerging insights, Gordon Moody has partnered with the University of Birmingham on a landmark research project to explore whether hormonal fluctuations linked to menstruation, ovulation, menopause and childbirth may influence gambling behaviours, impulsivity and risk-taking.
Dr Rosalind Baker-Frampton, Clinical Director at Gordon Moody, said:
“Today’s BBC article gives voice to women whose experiences of gambling harm have too often been overlooked. In our clinical practice, we have seen clear indications that hormonal changes can coincide with increased vulnerability to risky and compulsive gambling. This research will allow us to better understand those links and ensure treatment is informed by both science and lived experience.”
The multi-year study will examine biological, psychological and social factors, and will also explore whether hormone-regulating medications, such as oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, could have a role in reducing gambling cravings for some women when used alongside therapeutic support.
Gordon Moody notes that while the number of women affected by gambling harm in the UK is increasing, women remain significantly under-represented in residential treatment. Stigma, caring responsibilities and a lack of gender-specific approaches continue to act as barriers to support.
The research collaboration supports a wider public health approach to gambling harm and has been welcomed by the Gambling Commission, which has reiterated the importance of high-quality evidence to inform safer gambling policy and regulation.
“Listening to women’s stories is essential,” added Dr Baker-Frampton. “By combining lived experience with robust academic research, we can develop more effective, compassionate and inclusive responses to gambling harm.”
About Gordon Moody
Founded in 1971, Gordon Moody is the UK’s leading provider of specialist residential treatment, recovery and aftercare services for people severely affected by gambling addiction.
About the University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is a leading UK research institution with expertise in public health and addiction research, including work focused on understanding and reducing gambling-related harm.