Are you or someone you know addicted to gambling? Gambling rose in popularity after sports betting became legal in Columbus, Ohio. This leisurely activity can quickly become an emotional problem with devastating financial consequences.

Due to the legalization of sports betting and gambling apps in Ohio, mental health specialists have offered treatment to gambling addicts. There has been increased demand in the past year alone. 

Compulsive gambling is being unable to control the urge to gamble despite the toll that it takes on one’s life. When you gamble, you’re willing to risk everything you value to receive something of higher value. 

The reason why gambling is so addicting is that it stimulates the brain’s reward system, similar to drugs and alcohol. If you struggle with compulsive gambling, you might find yourself chasing bets that cause more losses and debt. 

Compulsive gambling is a serious problem that can destroy people’s lives. Many Ohioans who struggle with compulsive gambling get help with professional counseling. If you qualify for the signs and risk factors for compulsive gambling, you should find a gambling therapist in Columbus, Ohio.

One way to get help is to call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-589-9966) to speak with a qualified gambling specialist for treatment and resources. The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) is the official resource for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling. 

Facts About Columbus, OH 

To understand gambling’s impact on Ohioans, you should first learn some facts about the state. Columbus is the 14th largest city in the country. The capital maintained a steady population and became one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest. 

The city has four sports teams on one street—the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Columbus Clippers, the Columbus Crew, and the Columbus Fury have stadiums just a few feet away from each other along the Arena District. 

Ohio State football has a massive fan base with a football stadium that can seat up to 104,000 Buckeye fans. The National Football League once called Columbus home from 1927 to 1939. 

Because of this, the Columbus Panhandles was the first NFL team to play against another football team. Sports are a big deal in Ohio. In January 2023, sports betting became legal in Ohio, which led to the ever-growing gambling problem. 

How many Ohioans are problem gamblers?

The stats for problem gambling in Ohio are concerning. According to a new survey from the Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG), around 1.8 million residents in Ohio are at risk for problem gambling. 

The number of Ohioans estimated to have a gambling disorder rose to 2.8% or 255,000 residents. This data suggests that one out of five people is at risk of becoming a problematic gambler. 

It was also found that calls to Ohio’s Problem Gambling Helpline increased by over 50% in the first year sports betting became legal. The state helpline data also found that the number of Ohioans seeking care for problematic care rose to 67% from 2022 to 2023. 

Types of Therapy for Gambling Addiction

Gambling affects people differently. Different approaches are needed for the various gambling disorders and problems. Therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, group therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. 

Mental health counseling helps individuals get to the root of their gambling problem. It allows them to become aware of how their gambling affects their family, friends, and loved ones. 

During their counseling sessions, individuals will develop problem-solving skills that help them control or abstain from their gambling habits. Sometimes, the counselor might recommend a combination of psychotherapy with medication. 

Medication is prescribed to treat the mental health symptoms associated with behavioral addiction, such as anxiety or depression. The FDA hasn’t approved any medications for gambling addiction.

Support from family and friends is also crucial for successful treatment of gambling addiction. However, the individual must have the motivation to quit. 

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is the inability to control the urge to gamble despite having the desire to do so. Desire isn’t enough. You must also have the willpower to quit or abstain from gambling to start your journey of recovery. 

Problem gambling can manifest into a full-blown gambling addiction. A gambling addiction occurs when you suffer financial setbacks, mental health struggles, poor physical health, and problems in your work and personal relationships. 

You might notice that your gambling is borderline problematic. It’s best to be aware of the signs of your gambling habits before it develops into an addiction.  

Problem Gambling Warning Signs

Many warning signs suggest that someone could have a problem with gambling. One common sign is the difficulty of controlling his or her gambling habits.

They might also lie to their friends, family, and partners about how much money and time they spend on gambling. 

The individual might become obsessed with gambling. It’s all they think about or talk about. They might strategize their next opportunity to gamble or a plan to get more money. 

Birches Health offers gambling addiction treatment to Ohioans. Our licensed counselors can get you started on your mental health journey. Book a phone call today. 

Resources

Central Ohio treatment center to host open house for gambling addiction

Compulsive gambling - Symptoms & causes

Ohio for Responsible Gambling

Columbus Fun Facts

Fun Facts About Columbus, Ohio

Ohio Sports Betting Sites

Psychiatry.org - What is Gambling Disorder?

What is Problem Gambling

Nearly 1 in 5 Ohioans Are At Risk of Problem Gambling