Kindbridge Research Institute, in partnership with EPIC Global Solutions and Colorado Gaming Limited, has released new research examining gambling behaviors among first responders in the United States. This study helps address a critical gap in understanding how gambling intersects with mental health, occupational stress, and lived experience in this essential workforce.
First responders operate in environments defined by repeated exposure to trauma, high responsibility, and unpredictable stress. While much attention has been given to conditions such as PTSD and burnout, gambling has remained largely underexplored. This research brings new clarity to that intersection and highlights opportunities for more effective support and prevention.
Below are three key insights from the study
1. Gambling Harm Is Closely Linked to Mental Health and Trauma
The findings show a clear relationship between gambling risk and psychological distress. Higher levels of PTSD symptoms were associated with higher levels of gambling harm, and poorer mental health outcomes were linked to increased risk.
This reinforces an important perspective. Gambling behavior in this population is often connected to coping with stress and trauma rather than existing in isolation.
For Kindbridge, this highlights the importance of integrating gambling harm into broader behavioral health strategies. Addressing mental health without considering related coping behaviors may leave important gaps in care.
2. Risk Varies Across Roles and Work Environments
The research also shows that gambling behaviors are not uniform across first responder groups. Differences emerged across roles such as firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel, with some groups showing higher levels of engagement and risk.
These variations likely reflect differences in work structure, culture, and exposure to stress. For example, shift patterns, downtime, and team dynamics can all influence how individuals cope and engage in certain behaviors.
This insight points to the need for tailored approaches. Effective prevention and support strategies should reflect the realities of each role rather than relying on a single, generalized model.
3. Military Experience Significantly Increases Vulnerability
A third key finding is the strong association between military background and gambling harm. First responders with current or past military experience were significantly more likely to experience higher levels of risk, with the strongest effects observed among those currently serving.
This suggests that overlapping high stress environments can compound vulnerability. Experiences related to trauma, transition, and coping patterns may carry across roles and increase risk over time.
Recognizing this layered risk is essential for early identification and support. It also highlights the value of coordination between systems that serve veterans and first responders.
Advancing a More Integrated Approach
This research reinforces a broader conclusion. Gambling harm among first responders is connected to the structure of the work, the psychological demands of the role, and the ways individuals cope with stress.
Moving forward, there is a clear opportunity to:
• Integrate gambling screening into mental health and wellness programs
• Develop role-specific education and prevention strategies
• Expand support for high-risk subgroups, including those with military experience
By taking a more integrated and informed approach, organizations can better support the long-term wellbeing of first responders.
Kindbridge Research Institute remains committed to advancing evidence-based solutions that address gambling harm within the full context of people’s lives and work.