Addiction Countermeasures: From "Special Support" to "Everyday Security"
The General Incorporated Association for Research and Countermeasures Against Gambling and Other Addictions aims to transform addiction support from specialized aid to everyday security by promoting early prevention and accessible knowledge. They operate the PGCS certification program to train specialists and envision a society where understanding addiction is commonplace, particularly in the context of increasing accessibility to gambling with the development of IRs.
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- 📰 Published: April 1, 2026 at 19:00
- 🔍 Collected: April 1, 2026 at 10:15
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 16, 2026 at 22:19 (372h 4m after Collected)
The General Incorporated Association for Research and Countermeasures Against Gambling and Other Addictions endorses PR TIMES' "April Dream" initiative and shares the future we wish to realize.
Our Vision: "Let's not let addiction countermeasures end as a problem for some people."
Addictions, including gambling, are not issues that happen only to specific individuals; they are common problems that can occur to anyone.
However, currently, opportunities to learn correct knowledge are limited, the hurdles to consultation and support are high, and it is a theme that tends to be fragmented. The perspective of "prevention" has not sufficiently permeated society. In response to this situation,
we continue our activities with the desire to create "a society that can provide support at an earlier stage."
What is needed now for the IR era
In Japan, the development of IRs (Integrated Resorts) will progress, and the way people interact with gambling will change.
What is important in this trend is the perspective of how to balance "enjoyment" and "security."
We believe that addiction countermeasures are not "for restriction" but "a foundation for making choices with peace of mind."
The Future We Aim For
We aim for a society like the following.
An environment where people can naturally learn about addiction within schools and communities, a support system connecting medical care, welfare, education, and private sectors, and a mechanism to notice and consult at the stage of minor unease.
And, a state where the concept of "prevention" is gently rooted in society.
Changing Society by Fostering People
Our association operates the "Gambling and Other Addictions Countermeasures Specialist (PGCS)" qualification system to foster human resources with correct knowledge and response capabilities regarding addiction.
Currently, this qualification is beginning to be utilized in various settings, including educational fields, welfare/medical sectors, corporate and community activities.
In the future, we want to further elevate its position in society as "knowledge to be shared as a basic understanding in any field."
Finally
Addiction countermeasures are not just about responding after a problem occurs, but also about efforts to "create a society where problems are less likely to occur." We will continue to move step by step towards making a society where everyone can make choices with peace of mind, turning it into reality.
And, "Isn't what is needed in the coming era a society where one can make choices based on understanding, rather than a society where one engages without knowing?"
About the General Incorporated Association for Research and Countermeasures Against Gambling and Other Addictions
The General Incorporated Association for Research and Countermeasures Against Gambling and Other Addictions was established in November 2023 with the aim of promoting research and countermeasures against gambling and other addictions. The association originated from a research project team established within Osaka University of Commerce by academics and treatment professionals to create an educational curriculum on gambling addiction.
As a pioneer in fostering human resources to support addiction prevention, intervention, and treatment, the Association for Research and Countermeasures Against Gambling and Other Addictions has established the "Gambling and Other Addictions Countermeasures Specialist" certification system to make these countermeasures more effective. Through this certification exam, we aim to improve the quality of education for employees, professionals, and support staff, working to train specialists who can confront addiction.
Representative Director: Ichiro Tanioka (President of Osaka University of Commerce / Chairman of Tanioka Gakuen Educational Institution)
Known as a leading authority in criminology and gambling sociology, he continues to advocate for the necessity of addiction countermeasures to society from both educational and research perspectives.
■ Official Website
■ Gambling and Other Addictions Countermeasures Specialist
The "Gambling and Other Addictions Countermeasures Specialist" is a qualification that looks ahead to the increasing importance of addiction countermeasures as common knowledge that should be known in a society where gambling becomes more accessible.
It also allows for systematic learning of the mechanisms behind "process addictions," including gaming addiction. This enables individuals to learn not only self-prevention but also appropriate ways to engage with and intervene for close contacts such as family, friends, and colleagues.
It is expected that by obtaining this qualification, individuals such as those involved in the gambling business, medical and welfare professionals, public officials, students, and corporate HR personnel will become a starting point for early detection and treatment support for addiction within their organizations.
Additionally, it serves as objective proof of possessing basic knowledge regarding mental health disorders.
Information regarding the 2026 Basic Course Certification Program and examination details will be announced on the official website once the formal dates are decided.
Information on Certification Textbooks
For bulk orders, such as for affiliated organizations, please contact the association directly.
For smaller quantities, you can purchase them on Amazon or Rakuten Books.