New Study Reveals The Risks Of Problem Gambling In Illinois

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has just finalized a new research on the issue of problem gambling within the state.

The group carried out an assessment of problem gambling across the state in the Land of Lincoln, as different forms of gambling are increasingly available to residents of Illinois.

For the first time, an assessment of this kind has been carried out in the state. The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) revealed its findings at this week’s meeting of the Illinois Gaming Board.

Gambling problem survey results

Here are some key points from the evaluation:

• In the past year, 68% of adults reported that they had gambled.
• The popularity of video gaming terminals and sports betting has surged, however, the lottery remains the most popular form of gambling.
• Around 3.8% of adults in Illinois were identified as having a gambling issue.
• Around 7.7% of adults in Illinois are potentially at risk for developing a gambling problem.

Problem gambling is defined by The National Council on Problem Gambling as:

Patterns of behavior that interfere with, disturb, or harm personal, familial, or professional endeavors. The signs are a growing obsession with gambling, the necessity to bet larger amounts more often, unease or irritability when trying to quit, pursuing losses, and a lack of control displayed by the persistence of gambling activities despite escalating severe negative outcomes.

Illinois planning for the future

The IDHS forecasts an ongoing increase in the number of adults requiring treatments. To address this issue, they intend to make substantial investments in treatment services. For State Fiscal Year 23, a budget of $10 million has been allocated for the IDHS’s initiatives.

Dr. Hannah Carliner, the lead author of the assessment from Health Resources in Action, hopes that the newly revealed information will contribute significantly to the prevention of problem gambling.

“We anticipate the results of this evaluation will supply crucial data for those focused on preventing and treating problem gambling in Illinois. This information will enable them to make informed decisions based on data, aiding them in determining the most effective ways to support individuals on their journey to recovery.”

Dr. Carliner also holds the belief that the study might be beneficial for future evaluations of problem gambling. This could prove useful not only in Illinois but also in other states.

This assessment’s wide-ranging nature also allows it to serve as a benchmark for future evaluations to monitor shifts over time in the prevalence of gambling and problem gambling, as well as the availability and utilization of services.

Illinois problem gambling resources

The IDHS, in partnership with 1-800-GAMBLER, initiated WeKnowTheFeeling.org as a resource for individuals and their families who are dealing with problem gambling. For additional support, you can text ILGAMB to 53342.

Support specialists trained in evidence-based solutions are always on hand to help connect individuals with treatment and recovery services, as these resources are available 24/7.

If you’re a provider seeking to increase awareness, you can order printed materials such as posters, wallet cards, and brochures from the IDHS. You can obtain these by contacting the IDHS’ Chicago branch at 312-814-2300.

Prevention is one aspect, but treatment is another.

The gaming board offers a plethora of free resources to assist residents of Illinois in gambling responsibly. Adhering to safe practices can help preempt some problems before they occur.