As the Ohio gambling industry continues to mature and generate revenue, calls to the state’s helpline see a persistent trend toward increasing. Within the framework of the “Time Out Ohio” program, administered by the Ohio Casino Control and the Ohio Lottery Commission, a “Voluntary Exclusion List” is in place to help those struggling with gambling addiction.
Players willing to exclude themselves from Ohio’s casinos, racetracks, and sports betting can do so for one year, five years, or for good. Jessica Franks, Head of the Ohio Casino Control Commission Communications Division, explained that the voluntary self-exclusion tool was launched ahead of sports betting’s legalization in the state.
Although participation in the list is voluntary, once registered, players can be subjected to criminal trespassing charges and funds confiscation, if they visit a casino or racino. The confiscated funds are directed to problem gambling and addiction facilities.
The information on the Voluntary Exclusion List is confidential, with Ohio for Responsible Gambling and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services having access to it. Problem gambling experts use it to develop prevention strategies and determine the most suitable healthcare resources and programs for affected individuals.
Problem Gambling in Ohio is on the Rise
Michael Buzzelli, Associate Director at Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, commented on the effectiveness of the Voluntary Exclusion List. He stated that once included in the list, the general tendency for most gamblers was “a reduction in the urge to gamble”, with most not returning to the casino floor. He added that the self-exclusion request should be accompanied by clinical therapy or professional support from an organization such as Gamblers Anonymous.
However, based on the number of helpline calls, which in 2023 amounted to 9,448, or an increase of 66% compared to 2022, problem gambling seemed to be expanding in the state. Health experts consider gambling addiction a substance-use addiction, falling under the category of mental illnesses.
Statistics, compiled and published by the Ohio Casino Control Commission indicate that in State Fiscal Year 2023, a total of 67,713 Ohioans underwent gambling screening, with 1,139 receiving treatment. The percentage of women involved in gambling (52.4%) is higher than the percentage of men (47.6%). The group of 25 to 44-year-olds account for 39.7% of the gambling population in Ohio. Overall, of the state’s 9.2 million citizens, 19.2% are considered at-risk gamblers, and 2.8% are considered high-risk gamblers.
The problem gambling expert further explained that the warning signals for addiction can manifest themselves in different ways, including surpassing one’s gambling budget, spending more time gambling, mood changes, anxiety, and borrowing money to cover one’s expenses. Mr. Buzzelli concluded by encouraging Ohio residents to reach out for help whenever they spot red flags in their behavior or someone else’s.
