New Jersey is taking steps to address the issue of gambling addiction by offering $720,000 in grants to six organizations in the state. These organizations will provide specialized services to individuals struggling with gambling addiction, including hiring gambling specialists and offering unique programs to combat the increasing problem of problem gambling.
The grants are part of an effort to make help more accessible to those facing mental health and substance use issues related to gambling addiction. Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman emphasized the importance of addressing co-occurring behavioral health needs in individuals with gambling disorders, as these challenges can have a significant impact on families, workplaces, and communities. By partnering with providers who have expertise in identifying and treating gambling disorders, the state aims to expand the availability of mental health and substance use disorder services for those in need.
The increase in problem gambling in New Jersey can be attributed in part to the legalization of sports betting following the overturning of PASPA in 2018. Residents have wagered close to $34 billion since then, highlighting the need for interventions to address problem gambling behaviors.
Each grant-receiving organization will hire at least one full-time specialist with training in gambling addiction to provide screenings, counseling, therapy, and other services tailored to individuals struggling with gambling-related issues. These specialists will also offer individualized support to help individuals address debt, relationship problems, legal issues, and access community resources. In addition, the state plans to establish a task force to study the issue further and propose stricter limits on certain types of sports bets to combat problem gambling.
Problem gambling is not unique to New Jersey, as studies have shown an increasing prevalence of gambling addiction, particularly among young men. Sports betting, in particular, carries unique risks, with sports bettors facing higher rates of debt, lower savings, and even bankruptcy. Online betting presents additional risks due to its convenience and heavy advertising, making it highly addictive, especially for young men who are at greater risk of developing gambling problems.
Valerie Mielke, deputy commissioner for health services, emphasized the importance of integrating gambling disorder services into the existing mental health and substance use disorder treatment network to reach more individuals struggling with addiction. By providing comprehensive services for gambling disorders, the state hopes to support more people in their recovery from problem gambling.
Overall, the grants provided by New Jersey will support efforts to address problem gambling by offering specialized services, hiring gambling specialists, and implementing stricter regulations on sports betting. These initiatives aim to provide individuals struggling with gambling addiction the support they need to overcome their challenges and lead healthier lives.