Illinois Conducts Anonymous Online Survey To Better Understand Problem Gambling

Illinois is carrying out an anonymous survey to gain a better understanding of gambling addiction, in recognition of March being Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Illinois hasn’t conducted such a research in over 20 years.

However, with the expansion of gaming in 2019 which introduced online sports betting, added more slot machines, and plans for six new casinos, the state has hired researchers to study the issue. The Illinois Department of Human Services will conduct this research.

Since 2019, the number of calls to the state’s gambling disorder hotline has increased by over double.

The National Council on Problem Gaming (NCPG) approximates that approximately 2%-3% of Americans qualify as problem gamblers. They also estimate that nearly 40% of individuals with a gambling issue began gambling prior to turning 17.

Nonetheless, since we haven’t examined the issue in Illinois in over 20 years, we are uncertain about the precision of those figures in the Prairie State. Once the investigation concludes, we’ll gain a clearer comprehension.

The research conducted in IL is a study centered on individuals who often place bets, regardless of its legality.

The topics encompass a broad spectrum, including poaching and underground dogfighting.

Researchers are interested in hearing from you if you frequently place bets, regardless of whether you identify as a problem gambler or not.

Dial 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for help if you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem.

Tips to prevent playing issues

Here are a few recommendations and strategies to help lessen the challenges of playing in the meantime:

While it’s always nice to win, don’t assume that you will. Don & rsquo, never wager more than you can afford to lose. Always put yourself in a circumstance where losing one or more bets changes the course of your overall financial position.
• Consider gaming as a type of entertainment: When you go to the movies or dine at a restaurant, you’re essentially paying for an experience. Applying the same mindset to gambling can be a useful strategy for managing problematic play. It’s always possible that you might end up with more money after the experience, but also be ready for the chance that you might not.
• Simply because you’re on a winning streak, doesn’t guarantee it will continue. Know when to quit while you’re ahead, but also persevere. To gamble wisely, consider cashing out your winnings when you’re ahead.
• Don’t gamble when you’re drunk. It’s clear that this can lead to unwise and hasty decision-making.
• Encourage your friends and family to gamble responsibly: While you might already be well-informed about this, there could be someone in your circle who isn’t. Take this opportunity to guide others and help them steer clear of problematic gambling.

It is beneficial to wager at regulated bookmakers.

Both legal and illegal bookmakers can lead to issues during gaming, yet the former promotes and fosters responsible gaming habits.

On the other hand, offshore sites and bookies typically do not act in the best interest of bettors. In fact, they frequently exploit losing bettors, enticing them to pursue their losses and accumulate gambling debt.

One of the benefits of regulating play is that it allows for issues to be addressed openly and immediately.