What is a gambling problem?
A gambling problem is characterized by an increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop gambling, and/or continued gambling despite serious negative consequences.
Consider the following…
- Over 80 percent of Americans gamble every year and between three and five percent of Americans have a gambling problem. The State University of New York at Buffalo Research Institute on Addictions
- Between six and eight million adults and 500,000 teens meet the criteria for having a problem gambling disorder, approximately the same number who abuse prescription drugs. The National Council on Problem Gambling Report to United States House of Representatives (PDF)
- Estimates of the annual social cost of gambling-related addiction, bankruptcy and crime approach seven billion. The National Council on Problem Gambling Report to United States House of Representatives (PDF)
- A study in Southern California found that 10.7 percent of casino patrons were classified as “problem gamblers,” with 29.2 percent adjudged to be “at risk” and 29.8 percent seen as having a potential “gambling disorder.” Springer Journal of Gambling Studies
- Typically, people who struggle with gambling disorder have spent several years facing detrimental challenges and haven’t sought help. Sage Journals
- Approximately 1 percent of the general adult population in the United States has, or has had, a gambling disorder in their lifetime. An additional 2 percent have had some problems with gambling in their lifetime but have not met diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder. National Center for Responsible Gaming, Gambling and Health in the Workplace (PDF)
Below are various brochures, posters, videos, and other materials available at no cost to interested individuals across the State of Minnesota. Simply select the materials you’d like, and you’ll be directed to a form to fill out where to send them and submit! These materials have been created for your educational use, so feel free to request a sample or large quantity.
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