The Gambler Support Institute suspends services indefinitely.
The Gambler Support Institute (IAA) has suspended its services and support rooms as of Wednesday (October 21st), indefinitely. The decision was communicated in an official statement and attributed to a reduction in resources that compromised the entity's operational continuity.
The organization, which offered shelter and support to people with gambling-related problems, stated that the interruption aims to enable institutional restructuring. According to the IAA, the measure seeks to preserve the quality and safety of the support provided to the public served.
Transition period and care alternatives
The institute reported that it has begun a transition period to guide those who are under observation or need referral. The team is committed to explaining the care options available during this phase.
Among the options listed are:
⇒ Care provided at Basic Health Units (UBS), linked to the Unified Health System (SUS);
⇒ Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS);
⇒ My Digital SUS App;
⇒ Mutual support groups of Gamblers Anonymous.
The IAA also made available a registration form for a waiting list with updates on a possible resumption of services. However, the organization did not set a date for the return of activities and stated that new information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.
Impact on those served
In the statement, the institute acknowledged that the suspension may generate "doubt, concern, and sadness, especially among those with whom we have built bonds." The text highlighted the role of IAA spaces as welcoming places where people could share experiences "without judgment."
The communication concluded with thanks to those who have trusted in the organization's work over the years and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting the transition "with transparency, respect, and care." What remains open is precisely the extent of the void left: for bettors under active monitoring, the path to public mental health services is rarely immediate or without barriers, and the IAA did not indicate who, besides its transition team, will be responsible for monitoring these referrals.
OFFICIAL NOTE
It is with regret that the Gambler Support Institute announces the suspension of services and support rooms starting this Wednesday (October 21st), for an indefinite period.
Over the past few months, we have made every effort to maintain the operation of our healthcare services. However, we have had to interrupt services due to reduced resources to ensure continuity and the necessary infrastructure for operation.
The measure aims to seek alternatives for restructuring the Institute, out of respect for the people we support and the responsibility we have for the quality and safety of the support offered.
We understand the importance of our spaces in supporting and welcoming our audience. Furthermore, we also understand that this news may generate doubt, concern, and sadness, especially among those with whom we have built strong bonds.
Therefore, we are initiating a transition period to give full attention to the needs of those who are receiving care or who require guidance. Our team will explain the available care and referral options.
Among these alternatives are the Unified Health System (SUS), through services at Basic Health Units (UBS), Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS), and the Meu SUS Digital app. Another option is the mutual support groups of Gamblers Anonymous.
We have also made available a registration form for a waiting list with updates on a possible resumption of IAA services. However, we do not yet have an estimated return date, but we will share new information as soon as there is a decision.
Throughout these years, we have had the privilege of being a part of many people's lives, offering them a welcoming environment, support, and a space to share their experiences without judgment. We believe in the value of this care and hope that each person has felt supported. We are grateful to everyone who has trusted in our work.
We remain committed to our mission and to the responsibility of conducting this transition period with transparency, respect, and care.
We appreciate everyone's understanding and trust.
Tenderly
Gambler Support Institute
