LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — The Michigan Gaming Control Board has adopted 1-800-GAMBLER (486-2537) as the statewide problem gambling helpline –which officials said, will make it easier for people to get help.
In the most recent State of Michigan prevalence report, around 100,000 people in Michigan have struggled with a gambling disorder, and so to help, gaming officials are promoting 1-800-GAMBLER, where callers will receive support, important information, and referrals to services that can help them address their gambling-related concerns.
Sandra Johnson, Responsible Gaming Manager for the Michigan Gaming Control Board said gambling is sometimes harmful and can lead to addiction, financial problems, mental health issues, low self-esteem, relationship problems, criminal activity, and even suicide.
“They have been in the casinos, they have realized they are losing a lot of money. They have harmed the relationships in the family. They can’t pay their bills. So, they’re reaching out now. I need help,” Johnson said.
Johnson said that gambling is for entertainment purposes only but starts to become a problem when people start neglecting their responsibilities, stop paying their bills, lie or hide their gambling activities and start borrowing or selling possessions.
“If they’re gambling, they may be chasing their losses, trying to win back what they lost. They may be lying or hiding their gambling activities with their family members. Or they could be borrowing or selling possessions just to finance their gambling as well,” Johnson said.
According to officials, the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline will replace the Michigan problem gambling helpline currently in place. The helpline can also be reached by texting 800GAM or chatting online at 1800gamblerchat.org.
Online gaming platform providers operating in Michigan will be required to use the 1-800-GAMBLER number as part of their responsible gaming messages – and update any existing listed helpline numbers by August 8th of this year.
