Problem Gambling in Michigan
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For many people gambling is a harmless form of recreation, however, there are those who experience tragic problems due to uncontrolled gambling. The effect on family members is profound. In addition to family relationships and financial problems there are often problems in the work environment. The gambler leads a secret life because of the shame, fear, and embarrassment of their behavior. There can also be legal problems as the gambling effects work performance, attendance and use of work time and the computer to satisfy their cravings.
There are many forms of legal and illegal gambling in Michigan. We have nineteen American Indian casinos, three state run casinos, state lottery games and lottery tickets, Keno, internet gambling, Bingo, charitable events, private card or dice games, sports betting, office pools, races, betting on games of skill, animal fights and the stock market.
"A recent study of gambling behaviors in Michigan (click here for the complete report) has found that 2.0% of all Michigan residents currently have a gambling problem and that 4.1% have had this problem at some point during their life. This estimate is statistically the same as was found in a 2001 study that estimated 2.8% of residents currently had a gambling problem with 4.5% having a problem at some time during their life. This estimate for the number of "problem gamblers” in 2006 is equivalent to about 1 out of every 50 residents aged 18 and older. These estimates are also consistent with those found in other states.
The most common type of gambling reported for the past year was lottery (50.6%), casinos (34.0%), charitable group events (25.6%) and office pools and 50/50 raffles (24.2%). Among those who participated in each activity during the past year, the highest rates of problem gambling were found for those who participated in numbers games (13.7%), non-charitable group events (12.5%), and non-casino events (6.8%).”
The fact is problem gambling is often an untreated illness which is progressive and at times fatal. It is, however, a condition which does respond to treatment. The key to successful intervention is to ask questions about gambling, and know the resources to call into action if a problem is suspected.
To determine if you or someone you know has a gambling problem return to the home page and click on the link to Adult or Youth Gambling Inventory.
Help is available for the gambler and the family member 24/7 at the
Michigan Problem Gambling Help Line 1-800-270-7117.
