Shapiro administration highlights resources for problem gambling as calls for help increase
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)- Pennsylvania brought in $5.7 billion in revenue from gambling in 2023. The Shapiro Administration kicked off National Problem Gambling Awareness Month to highlight resources available.
“Gambling like alcohol and tobacco is legal but sometimes can become a problem,” said Kelly Primus, deputy secretary for the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
Brad S., a gambling addict in recovery, knows that all too well. His gambling addiction began in college, but it took a turn for the worse in 2013.
“I started deceiving people, borrowing money from all my friends and family and going to the casino and losing tons of money,” said Brad.
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Brad considered taking his own life a year later.
“I just couldn’t imagine facing all the consequences of my actions, and then from there, that’s when my recovery began,” said Brad.
Council of Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, a non-profit advocacy group, works to help people like Brad. A 24-hour chat line is available for those struggling.
“Not only have we seen higher call volume coming in, calls have nearly tripled in 2023 vs 2019,” said Josh Ercole, director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania.
“There’s no doubt that access to gambling venues in Pennsylvania has significantly grown in the past several years due to the legalization of sports wagering and online gambling,” said Claire Yantis, administrative director of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
Critics argue the state is expressing concern over a problem it’s enabled by expanding gambling at every turn, even calling for taxing and regulating skills games in the budget.
“As with lots of different things, there are opportunities for people to take it beyond its original intent, and when that does happen, we are here and all of us to help folks in their recovery,” said Primus.
The Gaming Control Board requires every online operator to display frequent pop-up messaging by alerting players how much time they’re spending wagering online.
“There are tools available for those who play the Pennsylvania Lottery online,” said Diana Dietz, deputy communications director at Pennsylvania Lottery. “Players have the option to set limits, take cool-off periods, or to self-exclude six months, one year, or five years.”
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“It really comes down to loved ones also pushing them to get help, so a lot of times, the problem gambler can’t see that they need help, nor will they take that step to go get help,” said Brad.
Individuals seeking compulsive or problem gambling treatment can call Pennsylvania’s helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). This helpline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to connect callers with local resources in their community. A live chat option is also available online or via text message at 1-800-522-4700 for those seeking help who may not be comfortable speaking to a helpline operator.
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Throughout the month of March, DDAP, PA Lottery, PGCB, and CCGP will be providing opportunities for individuals to receive information on available problem gambling resources, including:
For more information on the Shapiro Administration’s problem gambling resources, visit ddap.pa.gov.
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