Rahapelastus

Rahapelastus is a Finnish term used to describe the field of activities and practices aimed at preventing and reducing harm from gambling and supporting those affected by problem gambling. The word combines rahapel- (gambling) with -astus, a suffix indicating a process or state, and is used in public health and social welfare contexts in Finland.

Scope and aims: It covers prevention of gambling problems, early identification of at-risk individuals, treatment of gambling disorder, and social or financial support for families and communities. The concept emphasizes reducing harm rather than eliminating gambling per se, recognizing that gambling is legal and widespread but can cause significant harm for some people.

Approaches and services: Examples include screening and brief intervention in health and social services, psychological therapy for gambling disorder, financial counseling, family support services, self-help groups, online resources, and helplines. Many jurisdictions also use self-exclusion schemes and tools allowing individuals to limit their access to gambling products.

Policy and organizations: In Finland, public authorities, health services, consumer protection bodies, researchers, and gambling operators collaborate to monitor gambling-related harms, fund research, and implement prevention and treatment programs. Legislation typically includes advertising rules, age limits, and mechanisms for self-exclusion and responsible gaming.

Measurement and reception: Evaluations focus on prevalence of problem gambling, treatment uptake, and reductions in harms such as debt or relationship problems. The term rahapelastus is used in scholarly and policy discussions to frame these efforts as a public health issue rather than solely a personal failing.