Singapore sees more problem gambling in 3 years

A total of 2,700 cases of problem gambling were reported in Singapore from 2012 to 2014, a 60-percent surge from the three years prior, local media reported, citing Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin as saying in the parliament on Tuesday.

"The increase is due partly to greater public education efforts, which have raised awareness on problem gambling and encouraged help-seeking behavior," he said.

Tan also said pathological gamblers can seek assistance from two major institutions and other private and non-funded community and religious organizations, adding that treatment for problem gamblers depends on the severity of his addiction.

"It usually involves a combination of counseling and different types of therapy, conducted on an individual or group basis," Tan explained, adding that even patients who are already recovered after treatment are encouraged to join support groups for longer term support.

To further tackle the issue, Tan stressed the important role of family as "often in the best position" to detect signs of problem gambling of their families.

"Studies have shown that treatment works best if the problem gambler is accompanied by family members," he added.