Ohio For Responsible Gambling (ORG) has launched in the state to raise awareness and educate residents on problem gambling and responsible play.
Following the launch of sports betting in Ohio on January 1, ORG is promoting Pause Before You Play, a spinoff of Get Set Before You Bet, which focuses on responsible play and how sports betting can cause problems for gamblers.
The campaign highlights how being able to wager from anywhere means it’s easy for people to place multiple bets quickly, as well as conceal the amount they bet, potentially causing significant losses down the road.
Amanda Blackford, Director of Operations and Problem Gambling Services at the Ohio Casino Control Commission, commented: “In other states that preceded Ohio in legalizing sports betting, we’ve seen higher interest and more struggles with problem gambling. We want people to have fun and be responsible.”
Derek Longmeier, Executive Director of Problem Gambling Network of Ohio, said the campaign underlines the significance of early detection, noting: “The challenges of problem gambling go far beyond the person placing a bet. Families, children, and businesses, all face the consequences of a person’s gambling addiction.”
“The majority of Ohioans who gamble will stay within their limits,” added Longmeier. “As sports betting grows exponentially in 2023, it makes sense that we will see more challenges here in Ohio.”
Ohio residents looking to get help with their problem gambling can call the Problem Gambling Helpline 24/7 at 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741.