Heartland Family Service is reminding those struggling with gambling addiction, or who know someone who is struggling, that they can get help.
The nonprofit receives grant funding from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services for prevention specialists to help people learn more about problematic gambling and provide gambling prevention in the workplace, especially during football and basketball seasons.
“With so many sporting events either in progress or soon to begin, betting on the outcomes and outcomes of different situations during the game will also take place,” HFS said in a news release. “The risks of problematic betting increase for student athletes, as well as college students and young adults. Gambling and sports betting is not a game of skill. It’s a game of chance in which the house, app, or bookie’s advantage is real. For some people in Iowa, sports betting presents a real challenge.”
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Patrons place bets on sports at The Book at Horseshoe in Council Bluffs in December 2019.
Iowa Department of Public Health survey data says 27% of Iowa adults know someone whose gambling may be causing a problem and 22% of Iowans report being negatively affected by other people’s gambling.
Those who are worried about their gambling or are concerned about a loved one can call Heartland Family Service’s Problem Gambling Treatment Program in Iowa by calling 402-552-7400.
Signs to watch for include restlessness or irritability when trying to reduce or stop playing or betting; preoccupation about placing bets; chasing losses by gambling more in the hopes of getting even; negative impact on relationships, jobs, hobbies, finances, etc.; asking others to help cover gambling debts; and stealing to cover gambling losses.
Not sure if it’s really a problem? Visit yourlifeiowa.org to take a self-assessment about gambling, alcohol, drugs, suicidal thoughts or mental health that can also provide resources for receiving assistance.