Problem Gambling Awareness Month: Problem gambling on the rise in Ohio
Ohio for Responsible Gambling, an initiative that looks at ways to educate citizens on the negative impact of problem gambling, has reported an increase in calls to its helpline for the fifth consecutive year.
The organisation has been tracking these, and other, trends to promote awareness of Problem Gambling Awareness Month across the US, an event multiple operators are engaging with.
Stacey Frohnapfel-Hasson, Bureau Chief, Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, commented: “There’s a difference between responsible entertainment and potentially destructive behaviour. Most Ohioans aren’t aware of how many people are at risk in their communities.
“While the majority of gamblers make responsible choices, technology is making it easier for people to bet and that can pose problems people may not be able to see.”
While Ohio’s Governor has passed a bill to legalise sports betting, it is not expected to launch in the state until later this year at the earliest. There has been much discussion surrounding how the addition of sports betting, combined with traditional casino wagering, will impact the growth of problem gambling in the state.
Derek Longmeier, Executive Director, Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, said: “When sports betting becomes legal in Ohio, people can gamble any time of the day or night, on anything in the world. Casinos train staff to check on individuals who may be in crisis; that’s impossible with mobile sports wagering where customers play in isolation.
“Betting will grow exponentially in Ohio over the next few years. Preparing now will help families, friends and communities ensure this growth is safe and responsible.”
Legislation stipulates sports betting must commence in the state by 1 January 2023.
In 2017, a study of Ohio casino gamblers and sports bettors showed they held the highest rates of either at-risk or problem gambling. Of those who actively participated in casino wagering, 24% were said to be at-risk, while 24.3% said the same for sports betting.
To showcase their support for Problem Gambling Awareness Month, MGM Resorts, BetMGM and Entain have all committed to tackling problem gambling.
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