Dispelling the Myths.

Get the Facts

• Approximately 85% of U.S. adults have gambled at least once in their lives; 60% in the past year. Research indicates that most adults who choose to gamble are able to do so responsibly.
• Problem gambling includes all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits.
• Disordered Gambling is an impulse-control disorder and is a treatable mental illness.
• 1% of U.S. adults are estimated to meet criteria for gambling addiction known as Gambling Disorder or gambling addiction in a given year.
• The 0.9% of Ohio adults estimated to be problem gamblers is significantly below the national average rate of 2.2% for individuals having mild or moderate gambling problems.
• Ohio males 18-44, of any race or ethnicity, are the largest at-risk group.
• Anyone who gambles can develop problems if they are not aware of the risks and do not gamble responsibly. When gambling behavior interferes with finances, relationships and the workplace, a serious problem already exists.
• Common problems that often occur with problem gambling include substance abuse, depression, anxiety and stress-related medical problems.
• Problem gambling rates among teens and young adults have been shown to be 2-3 times that of adults. 15% of Ohio youth ages 12-17 are gambling, and 3% are experiencing negative consequences from gambling.
• Because there are no physical signs or biological tests as there are for substance abuse, it’s easier to hide a gambling problem for a longer period of time.