The never asleep gambling industry in Texas likes to point out how much business the casinos in Oklahoma and Louisiana get, which includes a hefty amount from Texans. But as gambling becomes more prevalent, so do gambling addictions.
Tribal casinos have grown in size and number since voters in 2004 approved a law expanding tribal gaming. There are now more than 100 tribal casinos in the state. Four horse racing tracks, the state lottery and even the Internet offer more gaming options.
“Of course the number of problem gamblers is on the rise,” said Wiley Harwell, executive director of the Oklahoma Association for Problem & Compulsive Gambling office in Norman. “Anytime you have casinos, per se, you’re gong to have this come along with it. If you’re in the casino business, you’re in the problem gambling business as well. We’re just now seeing our fair share of it.”
Figures from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services show the number of people who called the state’s gambling helpline increased from 627 in fiscal year 2007 to 912 in fiscal year 2009. The number of people seeking treatment for gambling addiction at a state-funded facility rose from 149 to 350 in the same time period.
“Gambling addiction used to be a hidden problem in poker rooms,” Harwell said. “Now you see more and more casino gamblers.”
Harwell said many of people who call the helpline see the number on posters and brochures that are required at casinos.
These numbers don’t address those who seek private help. Many more do not seek help at all.
I refer you back to this post about the concept of “playing to extinction”. The point, simply, is that there is a cost to expanding gambling, and that cost is in my opinion understated. I just want to make sure we all keep that cost in mind, especially if the prospects of casinos in Texas are getting brighter.