New online gambling and gaming addiction support service to be launched in Kilkenny

A new online gambling and gaming addiction support service for the South-East will be launched in Kilkenny this week.

SEGAS – South East Gambling Addiction Support service - is a new and innovative regional online service offering confidential support to individuals affected by gambling and gaming addiction. The service will be formally launched by Minister of State with Responsibility for the National Drugs Strategy, Jennifer Murnane O’Connor on Friday, June 20 at 12pm in the Hoban Hotel, Kilkenny.

Funded by the Department of Health and the HSE, SEGAS is designed to reach individuals across the South East who may be struggling in silence. The service provides free, one-to-one online secure video support sessions with trained addiction counsellors, ensuring anonymity, accessibility, and flexibility for clients.
READ MORE - WHAT'S ON IN KILKENNY

“We are increasingly aware of the hidden nature of gambling addiction and the sharp rise in younger people presenting with both gambling and gaming-related problems,” said Cornmarket Project Coordinator, Paul Delaney.

"SEGAS has been developed to reduce barriers to support, especially for those who may be experiencing shame, fear of stigma, or difficulty accessing face-to-face services."

Gambling-related harms are often concealed and isolating, and many individuals affected, particularly young adults and men, are reluctant to seek help. SEGAS removes many of the typical barriers to treatment by allowing people to access support discreetly from their own homes, on their own terms.

The new service comes at a time of growing concern about the normalisation of gambling in online spaces, the link between problem gambling and mental health issues, and the lack of services tailored to gaming-related addictions. SEGAS will also focus on increasing awareness among families and support networks of those affected.

Minister Murnane O’Connor’s support reflects the growing priority at national level to address behavioural addictions and expand harm-reduction approaches in line with the goals of the National Drugs Strategy.

The launch event on June 20 will bring together local service providers, community representatives, and addiction specialists to highlight the significance of the service and to showcase how technology can be used positively to reach those most at risk.

For more information about SEGAS or to access support, visit www.gamblingsupport.ie.
TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS