While the NFL and college football seasons are heating up, West Virginia online casino play is also available. 

According to Shelia Moran, the director of Marketing and Communication with the West Virginia Problem Gambling Help Network, nearly 1,200 residents reached out with a gambling problem last year.

Now, Moran says that the number of calls to the gambling helpline has doubled in the last year. 

“This is becoming more common,” Moran said.

Of course, Moran encourages those who do reach out to feel confident about doing so. She also mentioned that the demographic has changed. 

“We used to get more calls from women and middle-aged people when most played slots or video poker machines. Now, most callers use mobile devices to bet, either casino games or sports, and we get more calls from younger men.”

Problem Gambling Help Network Suggestions

The Help Network suggests that players follow these guidelines: 

• Treat the money you lose as the cost of entertainment and any winnings as a bonus.
• Plan ahead. Set a money and time limit, and stick to them. If gambling online, take advantage of the app’s responsible gambling features, which allow time and money limits.
• Avoid chasing lost money.
• Keep track of the amount wagered, and money won and lost. Many features in games make you feel like you are ahead, but accurate accounting may tell a different story.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, you can call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800Gambler.net for a completely confidential interaction.