March is problem gambling awareness month
ALBANY, OREGON – March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a critical time to increase understanding of this serious, yet often misunderstood mental health condition. The Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program is dedicated to promoting awareness and providing free and confidential problem gambling treatment services.
Problem gambling is defined as gambling behaviors that disrupt or harm a person’s family, work, or personal life. In Oregon, it is estimated that 2.6 percent of adults experience moderate or serious problems with gambling (Oregon Health Authority). For each person with a gambling problem, many others may be affected (ex. spouse, children).
The warning signs of a gambling problem may include: gambling more frequently or for longer than intended, lying about where money goes, declining work or school performance, or borrowing money to gamble. To see a complete list of warning signs, or to take a gambling self-evaluation, visit Oregon Problem Gambling Resource at OPGR.org.
In Oregon, gambling treatment services are provided at no cost to residents. Even if an individual with a gambling issue isn’t ready to seek help, their family and other supporters can access free counseling.
Linn County residents can contact the Linn-Benton Gambling Treatment Program at Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program (541-967-3819) for gambling treatment services in Linn County. Services include:
- Individual assessment and evaluation
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Family education about gambling addiction, relapse prevention, and recovery
- Additional class options include equine therapy and Mindfulness
Darrell Johnson, a Certified Gambling Addiction Counselor at the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program, notes, “The Linn-Benton Gambling Treatment Program is an important service to the community because it is a way for people who struggle with gambling to get free and confidential counseling.”
For all Oregon residents, the Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline (1-877-695-4648) connects individuals to resources and help for gambling-related issues. Trained professional staff are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to listen, answer questions, and refer people to free confidential counseling. To speak to someone in Spanish, call 1-844-888-2537.
Throughout March, the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program is hosting activities to educate the community and foster conversation around problem gambling:
Throughout March, the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program is hosting activities to educate the community and foster conversation around problem gambling:
- Problem Gambling Awareness Art Search contest for middle school students
- Gambling Disorder Screening & Problem Gambling Awareness table at Lebanon Senior Center, March 19, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Social media outreach at #linntogether
Contact:
Justin Thomas, Program Manager, Linn County Health Services, Alcohol and Drug Program
541-967-3819
