New Study Prompts Illinois To Increase Problem Gambling Resources

The Department of Human Services in Illinois has introduced new measures to address problem gambling following a comprehensive statewide study.

The state seems to be recognizing the increased focus on the significance of responsible gambling as highlighted in the report.

Results of problem gambling study

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) began studying citizens’ habits as gambling became more common in the state. This was the first survey of its kind ever conducted in Illinois.

Last month, the results of the study conducted by IDHS were released, revealing several significant findings.

• Approximately 3.8% of adults in Illinois are facing challenges related to gambling.
• Around 7.7% of adults in Illinois are at risk of developing a gambling problem.
• 68% of adults said they have gambled at least once in the last year.
• The most popular form of gambling in Illinois is playing lottery games.

In Illinois, around 383,000 residents are currently facing gambling issues when looking at the population. Additionally, there are 760,000 more individuals who could potentially develop gambling problems in the future.

The Illinois Gaming Board was presented with data from the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) last month. Luckily, the state is well-prepared for the expansion of gambling.

New Illinois resources

As gambling expands in Illinois, the state’s residents are expected to experience a rise in demands for assistance with problem gambling.

Illinois has provided training to over 200 clinicians in the past two years to treat gambling disorder, with the number of trained professionals expected to increase in 2023.

The IDHS has received a new $10 million allocation from the state for their upcoming budget. Laura Garcia, director of the Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, is currently exploring different approaches to tackle problem gambling.

We are using these results to develop tactics that will increase awareness of problem gambling, encourage responsible gambling, and expand prevention, treatment, and recovery services throughout the state.

Introducing new resources to promote responsible gambling in a state with a significant gaming presence is a wise decision.

However, there are resources available to help individuals who are dealing with a gambling problem or know someone who is.

Illinois residents can reach support specialists 24/7 by calling 1-800-GAMBLER or texting “GAMBLER” to 833234.