#Japan #Gambling Addiction #Taito #T-PEC #Support Call

T-PEC Seminar: Shedding Light on Gambling Addiction

On August 21, 2025, T-PEC held a seminar titled "The Reality of Gambling Addiction Hiding Close to You: Insights from the Support Call Field." This event aimed to raise awareness about gambling addiction, particularly in the wake of increasing issues surrounding online casinos and illegal gambling activities. Led by psychological counselors, the seminar provided a platform to discuss real-life cases and support strategies available through their 24/7 support system.

The Growing Concern of Gambling Addiction

In recent years, the rise of online gambling has turned gambling addiction into a pressing social issue, especially among the youth. According to a 2024 study by the National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical Center, around 1.8 million people in Japan are suspected of suffering from gambling addiction. In light of this alarming statistic, the government has begun to strengthen regulations and expand support systems.

T-PEC, based in Taito, Tokyo, has been operating a specialized support call service for gambling addiction since 2017. This initiative is renowned for offering free consultation 24 hours a day, every day of the year, manned by clinical psychologists and other professionals in the mental health field.

Key Takeaways from the Seminar

During the seminar, attendees were presented with vital insights into gambling addiction:

• - Onset and Progression: Many individuals become addicted without even realizing it, making early detection crucial.
• - Social Implications: Approximately 1.8 million individuals could be suffering from gambling addiction, with a significant portion of the illegal casino users being in their 20s and 30s. Alarmingly, 40% of them do not recognize that they are engaging in illegal activities.
• - Consultation Trends: Despite younger generations being less likely to seek help, many still find their way to the support line during moments of crisis, often prompted by family members’ concerns.
• - Support Strategies: Comprehensive support that involves not just the individual but also their family and workplace is necessary for effective recovery.
• - Recovery Systems: Preventing isolation and ensuring ongoing support is essential for lasting recovery from gambling addiction.

Feedback from Participants

After the seminar, 118 attendees shared their thoughts through a feedback survey. Notably, about 70% revealed they had minimal knowledge about gambling addiction prior to the event. Yet, more than 90% acknowledged its potential to draw individuals in rapidly. Interestingly, around 70% believed that recovery from gambling addiction is possible, suggesting a growing awareness of effective treatment options similar to those available for other addictions like alcohol and cigarettes.

Attendees expressed appreciation for the clarity of information shared, noting the complexities of recognizing gambling addiction in oneself and others. Many felt that the family dynamics and community support play a crucial role in mitigating the risks associated with gambling behaviors.

Insights from T-PEC Counselors

According to T-PEC's counselors, a common misconception surrounding gambling addiction is that it stems from a lack of willpower or personal responsibility. In reality, the condition is deeply rooted in brain mechanisms that influence behavior against one's own wishes. This misunderstanding can further isolate and stigmatize those affected by the addiction, inhibiting them from seeking help.

The goal of T-PEC's support system is to catch those fleeting moments when an individual feels the urge to seek help. Many desperate calls come during late-night or early-morning hours, emphasizing the need for our round-the-clock service.

Support inquiries often extend beyond the individuals suffering from addiction; family members also reach out, seeking guidance on how to support their loved ones effectively. T-PEC believes providing assistance to families is a crucial step towards recovery.

Future Endeavors

T-PEC is committed to tackling gambling addiction and other social issues through ongoing counseling and outreach initiatives. The organization aims to expand its reach and continue to contribute positively to the mental health landscape in Japan.

For more information about the Gambling Addiction Support Call service, visit their official page.

To discover more about T-PEC and their initiatives, explore their website at T-PEC. Founded in 1989, T-PEC has pioneered health consultation services in Japan, offering a range of support aimed at addressing various health and social challenges.