Linn County is making an effort in March, which is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, to increase understanding of problem gambling – a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition.
The Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program is committed to raising awareness and providing free and confidential problem gambling treatment services to community members.
Problem gambling refers to gambling behaviors that negatively impact a person’s family, work, or personal life.
In Oregon, an estimated 2.6% of adults experience moderate to serious gambling-related problems, according to the Oregon Health Authority.
Additionally, approximately 2.2% of Oregon adolescents are considered at risk for, or meet the criteria for, a gambling disorder. The effects of problem gambling often extend beyond the individual, impacting spouses, children and other loved ones.
Warning signs of a gambling problem may include gambling more often or for longer periods than intended, lying about how money is spent, declining performance at work or school, or borrowing money to gamble.
For a complete list of warning signs or to take a confidential gambling self-evaluation, visit the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) at OPGR.org.
In Oregon, free gambling treatment services are available to all residents, including both inpatient and outpatient care. Even if someone who is struggling with gambling is not ready to seek help themselves, family members and other supporters can still access free counseling and support.
Linn County residents can contact the Linn-Benton Gambling Treatment Program through the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program at (541) 967-3819. The program offers a range of services, including:
- Individual assessment and evaluation;
- Individual, group, and family counseling;
- Family education on gambling addiction, relapse prevention, and recovery; and
- Additional classes, including equine therapy and mindfulness.
“For anyone who feels gambling is taking control of their life, help is available without judgment,” said Brian Mayta, certified gambling treatment counselor with the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Treatment Program.
All Oregon residents can also contact the Oregon Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-695-4648 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The helpline connects callers with trained professionals who listen, answer questions, and provide referrals to free, confidential counseling. Spanish-language support is available by calling 1-844-888-2537.
Throughout March, the Linn County Alcohol and Drug Program is hosting activities to educate the community and foster conversation around problem gambling, including:
- Problem Gambling Awareness Art Search contest for middle school students.
- Social media outreach on Linn Together Facebook and Instagram.
For more, visit www.linncountyhealth.org/services/substance-use.