Portugal to open more gambling addiction centres

The Institute for Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies (ICAD) has confirmed plans for two additional specialist services, one in Porto for gambling addiction and another in Lisbon for problematic video gaming.

The expansion follows the opening of Portugal’s first dedicated public gambling treatment centre in Marvila, Lisbon, in June.

The demand for help is growing

The number of people seeking treatment for gambling-related problems has more than doubled in just two years, reaching 782.

Since opening four months ago, the Marvila centre has already provided 300 consultations and is currently treating 50 patients.

More than a financial problem

Gambling addiction can have consequences that extend well beyond money, affecting relationships, families and mental health.

At the Lisbon centre, patients receive support from psychologists, a psychiatrist and social workers. There’s even an accountant available for four hours each week to help people manage debts linked to gambling.

According to ICAD, younger men make up a significant proportion of those seeking treatment. Among male patients under 40, half are aged 25 or younger.

The centre is also preparing to introduce family support sessions, recognising that gambling problems often affect more than the person directly involved.

Meanwhile, Porto already has a specialist programme for video game addiction, operating in Matosinhos, which the government now intends to replicate in Lisbon.

The new services form part of wider plans to strengthen addiction treatment in Portugal during 2027.

No opening dates have yet been confirmed, with ICAD saying the expansion is still in the planning stages.

For those struggling with gambling or gaming, the proposed centres could eventually mean easier access to specialist support closer to home.