Ohio’s Problem Gambling Helpline
Published: September 4, 2019
Helping People from all Walks of Life
The Problem Gambling Helpline is a resource for Ohio residents who are seeking assistance with problem gambling. The Helpline is maintained by the United Way of Greater Cleveland 2-1-1. Callers to the Helpline speak to Navigation Specialists who provide referrals to local resources such as professional problem gambling counselors.
The data used in this post was collected between August 1st, 2018 and July 31st, 2019. During this time 1,579 people contacted the Helpline, by phone or online chat, for help with problem gambling for themselves or someone they know. As most clients are provided with multiple resources, those 1,579 clients were given a total of 3,342 referrals.
Clients of the helpline are asked to provide some demographic and geographical information to better assist Navigation Specialists in finding relevant resources. Below is a summary of that information.
Calls to the Helpline
By Location
The following picture is a map that displays the general location of the Helpline’s clients throughout the state of Ohio. As you can see, much of the state is represented – but Helpline clients are mainly located in the population centers of Akron, Canton, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo and Youngstown.
By Length of Gambling Problem
When it comes to seeking help for problem gambling, everyone has to wait until they’re truly ready. Below is the length of time that people calling the Helpline report having dealt with a gambling problem.
- Less Than 1 Year – 14%
- 1 to 3 Years – 43%
- 4 to 7 Years – 18%
- 8 to 14 Years – 12%
- 15 or More Years – 13%
As you can see by the data above, problem gambling is an issue that affects a wide range of people. The good news is that help is available 24/7 through the Problem Gambling Helpline.
Call 1-800-589-9966.
Text 4HOPE to 741741.
For more information and resources about the issue, visit BeforeYouBet.org.