The Problem Gambling unit of the State of Nevada Department of Health and Human Services has announced the launch of Project Worth. The online service connects Nevadans experiencing gambling problems to available state-funded treatment resources, including treatment centers in northern and southern Nevada and call, text or chat helplines.
It is estimated that as many as 180,000 residents – equal to 6% – of the state’s population, may experience a problem related to gambling. Despite this number, said the department, few of these individuals seek assistance, largely due to the stigma associated with seeking help.
Project Worth is designed to reduce some of that stigma by reminding Nevadans that they’re worthy and that the State makes free and low-cost resources accessible to individuals and families who need them.
“Project Worth was created to help people in the state of Nevada learn that everyone is worthy of support if they find themselves experiencing any of a range of harms from gambling — from mild to moderate to severe,” said Alan Feldman, chair of the Advisory Committee of Problem Gambling (ACPG).
“We want Nevadans to know that if they struggle with any kind of a gambling problem, there are treatment resources available on both the state and national levels to help them redefine their personal worth. And these resources are free or very low cost.”
Project Worth connects website visitors to six state-funded treatment centers – three in northern Nevada and three in southern Nevada. It also connects visitors to the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, a local resource that connects people with information about gambling disorder, and to the National Council on Problem Gambling’s online chat service and 24-hour call or text helpline.
Users will also be directed to Nevada 2-1-1, a site committed to helping Nevadans connect with the services they need.
