LANSING (WWJ) - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) said their 14th Annual Gambling Disorder Symposium comes not a moment too soon as the amount of people needing immediate help for gambling disorders tripled in 2021.
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Officials said this year's virtual event, named "Gambling: The New Direction," highlights the risks of legalizing online gambling and sports betting, which became permittable within the state at the beginning of 2021.
The department estimates just under 4,500 calls came in to their gambling hotline over the last year, which is triple the amount of calls they received in 2020. The amount of people who received referrals for gambling treatment also rose 42%.
The legalization of online gambling has created easy access for those struggling with gambling additions, according to MDHHS officials.
“These platforms engage in a pay-to-play format, so by their nature they’re addicting and difficult to escape. This can lead to severe financial trouble, as well as strained personal and work relationships as people participate in these spaces more than ever before,” said Alia Lucas, MDHHS gambling disorder program manager.
“Resources are available at the symposium to identify and learn about the steps you can take if you or a family member are struggling with a gambling disorder.”
The COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to the increase. More people — especially younger people — have turned to online betting to deal with feelings of anxiety, frustration and isolation brought on by pandemic restrictions, officials said. Online gambling allows an escape from difficulties in life. Data collected from MDHHS shows gambling issues among high school students is double that of adults.
Additionally, a juvenile who starts gambling by the age 12 is four times more likely to fall into gambling addiction as an adult.
The 14th Annual Gambling Disorder Symposium will be hosted virtually on Thursday, March 3 through Friday, March 4. Officials have asked that all those who wish to attend the free event please register online by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1.
To learn more about the Gambling Disorder Symposium, including how to register, visit Cmham.org/events/?EventId=6008.
To those struggling with gambling addiction or if you suspect someone may have a gambling disorder, trained and experienced counselors at the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline, 800-270-7117, are available for crisis intervention and referral to treatment.
The hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and provides "immediate help to address issues related to gambling disorder, including screening services and referrals to treatment or support groups."
For more information about problem gambling in Michigan, visit Michigan.gov/ProblemGambling.
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