Ohio Group Launches Free Online Therapy For Sports Betting
Amid the growing crisis of online sports betting addiction in the U.S., the Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO) announced in August 2024 a program for free online/remote therapy for gambling-related issues. Counseling services are through Zoom.
The PGNO receives funding from companies causing gambling harm in the Buckeye State. Penn Entertainment, FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati and JACK Entertainment are “platinum sponsors” of the PGNO.
The program, named the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network (OGTN), aims to serve the many Ohioans living in counties without a mental health service provider specializing in gambling.
The PGNO announcement also came ahead of the NFL and college football seasons, by far the most heavily-bet sports both in Ohio and nationwide.
Any Ohioan who is experiencing gambling-related harm can receive telehealth counseling services, regardless of county. This includes anyone who gambles or the loved one of someone who gambles. OGTN clients must reside in Ohio. Services are currently limited to adults.
In addition to the OGTN website, Ohioans can call 614-750-9877 to begin the telehealth process. The number is separate from Ohio’s Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-589-9966).
People struggling with gambling problems in Ohio can also text 4HOPE to 741741.
"As the impact of betting grows around the state, the need for specialized care has become a necessity and due to geographic location, many Ohioans do not have access to in-person, gambling specific care,” the Columbus-based PGNO said in a press release.
According to the group, about 2 million Ohioans experience issues with some form of gambling. Nationwide, studies have found that 30-40% of online sports bettors experience problems.
A recent survey found that about 20% of American adults have an online sports betting account. Based on Ohio’s adult population, that would be about 1.8 million Ohio online sports bettors. Based on the online sports problem gambling rate, about 640,000 Ohioans could be struggling with problems when betting on sports. Many people suffering from gambling problems have issues with more than one form of gambling.
Ohio sanctioned the launch of online betting sites in January 2023.
The Ohio telehealth program for problem gambling was also launched during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Problem Gambling Awareness Month is in March.
"Nearly 40% of those experiencing gambling disorders consider suicide," said PGNO executive director Derek Longmeier. "We need to change the perception that disordered gambling isn't life threatening and make sure people know that help is available across Ohio. Launching OGTN during National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a powerful message."
Until 2010, the PGNO was known as the Ohio Council on Problem Gambling and was one of the first state affiliates of the Washington, D.C.-based National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). The NCPG receives funding from the gambling industry.
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