Brazil launches national self-exclusion platform, strengthens policies
The Federal Government of Brazil took a decisive step in its strategy to address problems associated with online gambling. This Wednesday (3), the Ministers of Health, Alexandre Padilha, and Finance, Fernando Haddad, formalized the creation of a unified self-exclusion platform and expanded support and treatment actions for people with gambling-related disorders.
The initiative is part of the Brazil Health and Electronic Gambling Observatory and establishes a permanent cooperation channel between both ministries to exchange data, guide the population, and strengthen the care network of the Unified Health System (SUS).
Starting from the 10th of this month, any citizen will be able to voluntarily exclude themselves from all authorized betting sites, receive specialized support instructions, and block their CPF for new registrations or advertising campaigns.
How the self-exclusion platform will work
The centralized tool from the Ministry of Finance will allow:
- Blocking user access to all regulated betting platforms.
- Preventing new registrations and restricting the sending of advertising based on the CPF.
- Allowing also people who do not gamble, but wish to avoid possible risks, to self-exclude.
- Directing users to psychological and psychiatric care within SUS, with access to Meu SUS Digital and the SUS Ombudsman.
The measure seeks to offer a practical and accessible self-care mechanism, especially in an increasingly digitalized market.
New Care Line for gambling-related problems
The Ministry of Health also presented the country’s first clinical guideline for the care of gambling-related disorders. This Care Line includes unprecedented protocols and coordinates in-person services with a future telecare system.
Starting from February 2026, SUS will offer specialized teleconsultations for gambling addiction through an alliance with the Syrian-Lebanese Hospital, within the Proadi-SUS program.
In its initial phase, 450 monthly consultations will be available, with expansion according to demand. Cases that require it will be referred to in-person care within the public network.
Where to seek help: care throughout SUS
People with gambling-related problems will receive assistance at:
- Basic Health Units (UBS)
- Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS)
- Emergency Care Units (UPA)
- General hospitals
In risk or crisis situations, the emergency service SAMU 192 provides immediate care.
Additionally, the Government opened registration to train 20,000 professionals from the public network. The course “Gambling: care in the Psychosocial Care Network,” developed with Fiocruz Brasília, will be free and aimed at SUS personnel.
More guidance for the public: education, prevention, and self-assessment
Meu SUS Digital already has new materials with warning signs, preventive recommendations, and educational content about the impact of gambling on mental health.
The SUS Ombudsman has also expanded its response capacity and serves via phone 136, WhatsApp, chatbot, and web form.
Likewise, the Mental Health Self-Test is available to help people assess their relationship with gambling. The Ministry clarifies that this is not a diagnosis, but a guidance tool to encourage seeking professional help.
Tags: Brasil, Ministry of Health, Mental Health, online betting self-exclusion, Brazil betting self-exclusion systems