Ohio's Problem Gambling Helpline
Call or text the confidential Problem Gambling Helpline 24/7 to talk with a trained and understanding counselor.
CALL: 1-800-589-9966
TEXT: 4HOPE to 741741
In crisis? Call Ohio’s Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Ohio offers many free resources and assistance for those who might be at risk or already struggling with problem gambling. Trainings, toolkits, and other resources are also available for community organizations looking to help those who need it.
Get Help in Your Community
Use Ohio’s online problem gambling directory to find local assistance near you, including problem gambling counseling, peer support meetings, family support groups, and more.
Find Local Resources
Exclude Yourself from Gaming
If you are at risk, have a problem, or simply want to engage in prevention for your future, Ohio offers a voluntary exclusion program (VEP) called Time Out Ohio. Once enrolled, you will be prevented from accessing Ohio casinos, racinos, or sports betting for one year, five years, or your lifetime.
Time Out Ohio
By enrolling in the Time Out Ohio voluntary exclusion program, you will be preventing yourself from gambling.
Find a Support Group
Going to an online or in-person meeting of people who share your struggle is a longstanding way to get help for problem gambling. Use these resources to find a peer or family support meeting nearby and access additional assistance.
Gam-Anon – Gam-Anon serves the community through meetings and personal experiences of family members.
Gamblers Anonymous – By attending a Gamblers Anonymous meeting, you’ll be able to talk to someone who understands. Access their web site to locate a self-help meeting near you.
Game Quitters – Many people who play video games also struggle with gaming addiction. Game Quitters offers help, including responsible gaming guides, and access to a global support network.
Responsible Gambling Organizations
Ohio is home to many groups that offer resources to those who struggle with problem gambling and work to increase awareness about responsible gambling strategies.
Ohio For Responsible Gambling (ORG) – ORG is a coalition of four government agencies — the Ohio Lottery Commission, the Ohio Casino Control Commission, the Ohio State Racing Commission, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services — who work together to promote responsible gambling in Ohio, including through the Pause Before You Play campaign.
Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO) – PGNO strives to generate awareness, promote education, and be an advocate for quality treatment of people struggling with problem gambling in the state of Ohio.
Prevention Action Alliance – The Prevention Action Alliance provides prevention-based trainings, technical assistance, and consultation on problem gambling throughout Ohio.
National Council on Problem Gambling – The National Council on Problem Gambling offers a wide range of help and resources to people who are at risk or struggling, as well as those looking to encourage responsible gambling practices.
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