Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A surge in online gambling addiction has led to the hospitalization of hundreds of people at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) in Jakarta throughout 2024, as more individuals become aware of the impact on their mental health and seek professional help.
Dr. Kristiana Siste Kurniasanti, an addiction psychiatrist and Head of the Psychiatry Division at RSCM, reported a significant increase in patients treated for online gambling addiction this year, particularly in the early months. While the numbers are concerning, she sees a silver lining in the growing awareness of mental health issues.
“The number of inpatients is approaching 100, with outpatient cases being double that figure,” Dr. Kristiana noted as reported by detikHealth on Friday, November 8.
Dr. Kristiana believes these cases represent only a fraction of the broader issue of online gambling addiction affecting Indonesian society. The trend has been on the rise since 2021, fueled by the pandemic and the easy access to online loans.
According to her, the national figures are likely much higher, with cases reported not only in urban areas but also in various regions across the country. The age range of those affected varies widely, from teenagers to the elderly.
“Most of the cases we encounter at the RSCM Addiction Clinic are within the productive age group, starting from teenagers up to young adults around 40 years old. However, we also see patients over the age of 60,” Dr. Kristiana explained.
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Research conducted by her team indicates that adolescents and young adults are at a higher risk of developing online gambling addiction. This vulnerability is linked to the ongoing development of the adolescent brain, which is not yet fully mature.
Through examination from dozens of patients, Dr. Kristiana found that the motivation behind online gambling is not solely the thrill of winning. Many individuals are driven by the hope of earning quick money to meet financial needs.
“The urge to obtain instant gratification—whether it’s immediate cash or the thrill of winning—is a powerful motivator,” she noted.
The rise in online gambling addiction underscores the urgent need for increased public awareness and intervention programs, especially as the digital gambling landscape continues to expand.
(Raidi/Agung)
