Problem Gamblers

If you're struggling with a gambling problem, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world face this same challenge every day. It's important to remember that recovery is a journey and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It may take time to find the strategies and resources that work best for you; however, it is possible to overcome a gambling disorder and build a fulfilling life. There are many resources and types of support available to help individuals overcome gambling addiction.

If you're ready to take the first step toward recovery, reach out to a counselor, support group, or treatment program in your area. You can also find a wealth of information and resources online to help guide you on your journey. Remember, you don't have to do this alone. With the right support and resources, you can reclaim your life.

Call the Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline 24/7

1-800-589-9966

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help & hope is available.

Treatment Options

Many individuals benefit from working with a therapist or counselor who specializes in addiction. These professionals can help you identify the underlying causes of your addiction and develop strategies for managing your urges and behaviors.

The Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-989-9966) and GamblingHelpOhio.org can connect you with treatment options in your area. Gambling treatment is free or low-cost in Ohio for those experiencing a gambling problem and their loved ones. The Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline can also refer callers without local treatment options to the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network, which provides virtual telehealth treatment for problem gamblers.

Veterans and active duty military members can participate in the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center residential gambling treatment program.

Support Groups

Joining a support group for individuals with gambling addiction can provide a sense of community and understanding. These groups offer a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and receive encouragement and support from others who have faced similar challenges. There are a variety of support group options to suit your specific needs.

Gamblers Anonymous

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling.

SMART Recovery

SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. SMART was created for people seeking a self-empowering way to overcome addictive problems. What has emerged is an accessible method of recovery, one grounded in science and proven by more than a quarter-century of experience teaching practical tools that encourage lasting change.

Gamblers in Recovery

Gamblers, Family and Friends In Recovery (GFFR) was born out of the need to support compulsive gamblers, and families and friends affected by someone’s gambling, who were no longer able to attend face-to-face meetings during the Covid-19 pandemic. Their mission is to provide a resource for finding online recovery meetings efficiently.

Voluntary Exclusion Program

Time Out Ohio

This program, coordinated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) and the Ohio Lottery Commission (OLC), offers individuals the ability to agree to refrain from entering or accessing all Ohio casinos, racinos, and sports betting for one year, five years, or their lifetime. Once the enrollment application is completed, you will not be permitted access to any Ohio casino, racino, or sports betting options during the length of the selected term.

Individuals seeking to enroll in Time Out Ohio, as well as those seeking to remove themselves from the program, can do so online at www.TimeOutOhio.com, at any of the Ohio casinos, at any of the Ohio racinos, or at the Ohio Casino Control Commission Central Office.

Additional information about Time Out Ohio is available at www.TimeOutOhio.com.

For questions regarding the program, please contact Cory Brown, Manager of Problem Gambling Services, at

Cory.Brown@CasinoControl.Ohio.gov or by phone at 614-387-5854 or Susan Diamond, Responsible Gambling Program Coordinator, at Susan.Diamond@Lottery.Ohio.gov.

Podcasts

Sharing stories and experiences can be an empowering part of the recovery process. These podcasts are hosted by people with lived experience with problem gambling and can provide a sense of community and connection for those who may feel isolated in their struggles. Check out the podcasts below to listen to the stories of those who have overcome gambling addiction and rebuilt their lives.