More Young People Are Calling Problem Gambling Helplines
Published: August 5, 2024
As sports betting becomes legal in more states, the number of calls to problem gambling helplines has seen a significant increase. Along with this rise, calls tend to be coming from a younger demographic, specifically young adult males.
This finding corresponds with common statistics related to gambling disorders. In Ohio specifically, males 18-44, of any race or ethnicity, are the largest group at risk for experiencing a gambling disorder. And with the legalization of sports betting, many problem gambling experts expected that calls would increase across all demographics. But the impact has far outpaced many of their original predictions.
Take the state of Virginia, for example. Virginia legalized gaming and sports betting in 2020 and since then, “the state problem gambling helpline has seen a 788 percent increase in total calls between 2019 and 2022,” according to the Henrico Citizen.
More recently in Ohio, where sports betting was legalized in January 2023, “calls to the state’s problem gambling helpline increased by 55 percent in the first year of legal sports betting, per data from Ohio for Responsible Gambling,” as stated by Action Network.
The increase in calls to the helpline only highlights the need for accessible tools and resources that can help support individuals who are experiencing a gambling disorder, regardless of age. In Ohio, individuals can call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline, where trained and understanding specialists will answer any call 24/7. There is also the option to connect with a specialist through text or live chat.
In addition to this helpline, the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio recently announced the availability of the new Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network (OGTN). Now, when any Ohioan calls the Problem Gambling Helpline, they will have the option to connect with virtual counseling support at no cost.
Through OGTN, Ohioans can experience support that:
- Is at their pace and on their schedule.
- Is kept confidential by experienced staff.
- Has no strings or commitments attached.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network, don’t hesitate to contact OGTN to learn more about their services and get answers to any questions you may have. You can also access the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline any time when you make the call at 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741.