QUEBEC — Researchers at McGill University and the Douglas Research Centre published the results of a 13-year study on gambling disorder treatment in Quebec on July 6, 2026. The study followed more than 2,300 individuals diagnosed with a gambling disorder.

The study found that patients averaged fewer than two treatments over the 13-year period. Approximately 42% of those who sought treatment for gambling disorder had multiple admissions for care. Individuals who gambled online showed about a 15% higher rate of treatment admissions compared to other gamblers.

Patients with co-occurring mental health conditions were more likely to return for multiple treatments than other gamblers. Additionally, individuals who initiated treatment on their own were more prone to seeking additional care.

Marie-Josée Fleury, a professor in McGill's Department of Psychiatry, stated, "Gambling disorder is not something that can be resolved in a single treatment." She added, "It often requires sustained, long-term care." Fleury also said, "We need to approach it as a chronic condition for some patients, comparable to substance-related disorders."

Postdoctoral researcher Ovidiu Tatar stated, "Online gambling makes it easier to act on impulse, which can increase the risk of relapse and repeated treatment." He added, "It's important to encourage people to recognize the problem and seek help earlier." Tatar also said, "Many don't disclose gambling issues, and doctors don't always ask."

A poll from the Angus Reid Institute indicated that nearly three in 10 Canadians are concerned that someone they know might be addicted to sports betting. The same poll revealed that 69% of Canadians anticipate an increase in problem gambling as betting options expand. Ontario has a regulated online gambling market. The study was published in the Journal of Gambling Studies with the DOI 10.1007/s10899-026-10490-7.

Why It Matters

This research provides insights into the long-term treatment patterns and characteristics of individuals with gambling disorder in Quebec. The findings indicate that treatment for gambling disorder often requires multiple interventions over an extended period, particularly for those who gamble online or have co-existing mental health conditions. The study suggests a need for re-evaluation of current approaches to treatment and early intervention strategies, especially as public concern about increasing problem gambling grows in Canada with the expansion of betting options.