New Study Reveals The Risks Of Problem Gambling In Illinois

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has recently completed a new study on problem gambling in the state.

The team conducted a study on the prevalence of problem gambling in Illinois, also known as the Land of Lincoln, due to the growing accessibility of various gambling activities in the state.

This marks the first time that a assessment of this nature has been conducted in the state. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) unveiled its results during this week’s Illinois Gaming Board meeting.

Gambling problem survey results

Below are the main points highlighted in the assessment:

• 68% of adults said they had gambled in the previous year.
• The popularity of video gaming terminals and sports betting has grown rapidly, but the lottery continues to be the most preferred form of gambling.
• Approximately 3.8% of adults in Illinois were found to have a gambling problem.
• Approximately 7.7% of adults in Illinois may be at risk of developing a gambling issue.

The National Council on Problem Gambling defines problem gambling as:

Signs of a gambling addiction include a growing obsession with betting, the need to wager larger sums more frequently, feelings of unease or irritability when attempting to stop, chasing losses, and a lack of control demonstrated by continued gambling despite experiencing increasingly severe consequences in personal, familial, or professional aspects of life.

Illinois planning for the future

The IDHS predicts a continued rise in the demand for adult treatments and plans to invest heavily in treatment services to combat this issue. A budget of $10 million has been set aside for the IDHS’s initiatives in State Fiscal Year 23.

Dr. Hannah Carliner, the primary author of the assessment from Health Resources in Action, anticipates that the recently disclosed data will make a significant impact on the prevention of problem gambling.

We expect that the findings of this assessment will provide essential information for individuals working to prevent and address problem gambling in Illinois. This data will help them make informed decisions and determine the most effective strategies to support individuals in their recovery process.

Dr. Carliner believes that the study could have valuable implications for future assessments of problem gambling, not only in Illinois but also in other states.

This assessment’s comprehensive scope also enables it to be used as a reference point for upcoming evaluations to track changes in the occurrence of gambling and problem gambling, as well as the accessibility and usage of services over time.

Illinois problem gambling resources

The IDHS collaborated with 1-800-GAMBLER to launch WeKnowTheFeeling.org, a resource for those struggling with problem gambling and their families. For more help, text ILGAMB to 53342.

Trained support specialists are available around the clock to assist individuals in connecting with evidence-based treatment and recovery services.

If you are a provider looking to raise awareness, you can request printed materials like posters, wallet cards, and brochures from the IDHS. Simply reach out to the Chicago branch of IDHS at 312-814-2300 to obtain these materials.

Prevention is important, but treatment is equally essential.

The gaming board provides numerous free resources to help Illinois residents gamble responsibly. By following safe practices, individuals can prevent potential issues from arising.