Support on the Internet – Results of the web-based programme EfA for family members of disordered gamblers

Introduction:

Various studies show that people seeking help because of a family members gambling disorder are exposed to highly stressful living conditions (Buchner et al., 2012; Hodgins et al., 2007). Often, professional help is only used after a long duration of the problem. Furthermore, there are different barriers hindering affected family members (AFMs) to seek help (Hing et al., 2013). A web-based programme could contribute to overcome those barriers and could be a low threshold means of support for this clientele.

Methods:

The web-based psycho-educative programme EfA („Verspiel nicht mein Leben“ – Entlastung für Angehörige) with a modular design was developed as a low threshold initial support for AFMs. Those interested in participating were able to sign up for the programme on their own and anonymously. We examined whether there was a positive change regarding an action-specific aspect of perceived self-efficacy and regarding general life satisfaction.

Results:

Over a time period of 36 months between 2013 and 2016, data of 387 AFMs participating in the programme were collected. Differences in an action-specific aspect of perceived self-efficacy and in general life satisfaction are reported.

Conclusions:

Participants who attended the whole programme show positive changes in their perceived self-efficacy regarding their confidence to talk about the situation with their family and friends, their confidence to be better able to cope with stress due to the problem, and their confidence to be better able to set boundaries. Also, there are positive changes regarding their general life satisfaction. As a result, the web-based programme EfA is a good opportunity to provide low threshold support for AFMs.