Sluta Spela (Stop Playing)

Description:

Sluta Spela (Stop Playing) is a self help program designed for problem gamblers, based on established methods of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). The program consists of eight modules, which are to be completed one per week in order. The first four modules focus on building motivation for change and mapping the reasons for gambling. You are encouraged to ask for input from your family on different aspects of your gambling. The remaining four modules are based on CBT. Each module ends with a homework exercise of three to eight essay-style questions. The program also includes participating in anonymous online discussions with other participants and a 15-20 minute telephone conversation with a therapist every week. The entire program takes around nine weeks to complete.

Service URL:

http://www.slutaspela.nu

Agency Responsible:

Spelinstitutet.

Details

Format:

Website.

Intervention Type:

Psychological – CBT. Also utilises motivational interviewing

Course Length:

Long (more than 5 modules). Comprises 8 modules

Support Option:

Clinical support. Provided by telephone with a therapist

Target Audience

Primary Category:

Gambling.

Target Audience:

Adult. Targets adults over the age of 18 years

Language:

Swedish.

Access

Fee:

Fee-based.

Access:

Closed: Email administrator. There is currently a waitlist but applications can be made by completing a form at www.slutaspela.nu/manualen/screening/

Contact Details:

Via an online form at www.slutaspela.nu/kontakt/aspx

Research evidence

Research Trials:

1

Research RCTs:

1

Outcome Summary:

In a randomised controlled trial (RCT) which compared the Sluta Spela intervention to a wait-list control, the intervention resulted in significant decreases in pathological gambling, anxiety and depression, and increases in quality of life. A large composite between-group effect size was found at post treatment (d = 0.83). Effects were sustained at 6, 18, and 36 months. Within group effect sizes for the treatment group at these follow-up points were d = 2.58, 1.96, and 1.98 respectively. Results of this RCT provide promising evidence of the efficacy of the Sluta Spela intervention.

Recommended rating, reviewer 1:

Recommended rating, reviewer 2:

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Research paper citations

1. Carlbring, P., & Smit, F. (2008).Randomized trial of internet-delivered self-help with telephone support for pathological gamblers. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 76, 1190-1194.