Problem Gambling Calls Increasing in Pennsylvania

By Jane Shaw Senior Editor Updated: 03/25/2023

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We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she’s our gambling tech expert. Jane’s also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

Problem Gambling Calls Are Increasing

According to a recent report, the number of calls relating to problem gambling has been increasing in Pennsylvania.

In fact, data shows that since online casinos were launched in the state, the number of calls to the 1-800-GAMBLER problem gambling hotline has increased by more than 100 percent, as players battle to control their issues with gambling. The calls to the hotline didn’t just concern gambling at casinos, as sports betting was also the reason for many people calling.

Officials have said that this type of trend is often seen in places where new forms of gambling are launched, and these cries for help are sometimes labeled as being a crisis.

However, one gambling addiction professional said that the rise in calls to the gambling hotline is not all bad news, and it means that people now realize that there is support available.

Calls Not Always from Gamblers

It was pointed out that, although there was an increase in the number of gambling calls, not all calls were from people seeking help. Some calls related to other matters, and some were simply hang-ups.

The data showed that between 2019 and 2021, the number of calls to the hotline increased from just over 11,000 to 17,380. These numbers then fell in 2022, with call volumes dropping to 14,146. However, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA (CCGP) confirmed that numbers are once again rising.

Officials believe that spikes in call numbers are often down to the release of a new gambling platform or game that players are eager to try. They then develop an addiction and call the helpline for advice.

Josh Ercole, executive director of the CCGP, said:

There’s probably one aspect of this where there are people who are trying a new game out. It’s trendy, it’s fun, and before long they develop issues with it. But the awareness piece is also something to consider. We’ve doubled our intake call volume from two years ago.

He added that part of the reason behind the jump in call numbers was likely to be down to people being more aware of the helpline and the support available to them. This, he said, was the upside of seeing more people calling the helpline.

On the downside, officials said that it is difficult to determine how many calls are down to people developing new addictions, and how many are down to people simply coming to realize there is help available.

Problem Gambling an Issue Across the United States

Gambling addiction and lack of support have become serious issues across the country. It has become more prevalent as a result of more states legalizing gambling and offering online gambling options.

Many are concerned that easier access to gambling platforms will see ongoing increases in problem gambling issues, with some pointing out that there is not enough support available to help those with addictions.

Some states now put a portion of the taxes they make from gambling activity toward funding support programs. This then means that more gamblers can get the help they need.