Release from Problem Gamblers Help Network of West Virginia
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — It is no coincidence that March, the month when the NCAA basketball tournament is in full swing, is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. According to the American Gaming Association, an estimated $10 billion will be spent on the “March Madness” betting. For most people, this amounts to harmless fun, but for a few people, these bets spell big trouble. Those who struggle with gambling addiction often find that March is a difficult month, one where their recovery may be in danger.
Jennifer Davis-Walton, director of the Problem Gamblers Help Network of West Virginia, which operates the 1-800-GAMBLER program says gambling addiction is a serious problem for many people in West Virginia. Studies have shown 1 percent of the population has a serious gambling problem, and another 2-3 percent show symptoms of the disorder. Davis-Walton says her group has taken more than 14,000 calls from state residents asking for help with a gambling problem since the program started in 2000. She urges those who do decide to fill out a bracket to follow the “Rules of Responsible Gambling.” For example, gamblers should treat the money they lose as the cost of entertainment, not as a bad investment. “People start to get into trouble when they start seeing betting as a way to make money instead of just having fun. When they lose money, they chase their loss by betting even more, and it turns into a downward spiral.” For more on these rules, visit 1800GAMBLER.net.
Anyone who thinks they or a loved one needs help with a gambling problem is urged to call 1-800-GAMBLER. Callers speak with a helpline counselor based in Charleston, and they are referred to one of the network’s 70+ specially trained gambling addiction counselors. They receive a free two-hour consultation. Funds are available for those who do not have insurance to pay for additional treatment. Follow-up studies with helpline callers show that the majority of callers are able to stop gambling within six months of entering treatment.
