Signs of a gambling problem can be hard to spot, and they often overlap with mental health and substance use disorders. Like any addiction, gambling disorder causes disruptions to a person’s well-being, job and relationships. One person’s gambling addiction is also estimated to affect eight to 10 other people.
The normalization of betting in our culture and lingering stigma leads many people who are struggling to feel isolated and alone. Only 20% of individuals with a gambling problem ever seek help.
The rapid expansion of unregulated betting apps and prediction markets is putting more people at risk. As a provider, you have the power to become a trusted local resource.
Expanding access to care is critical. Yet many counties and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) do not have trained clinicians to meet this great need.
Step up to support your community by becoming an approved provider. In Minnesota, clinicians must be affiliated with a clinic or treatment center, complete 60 hours of problem gambling training and enter into a contract with the Department of Human Services (DHS). Scholarships are available for eligible providers. See details.
To become an International Certified Gambling Counselor-II (ICGC-II) in Minnesota, clinicians must complete 60 hours of problem gambling training. After completing these hours, they’re eligible to take the ICGC-II exam. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education.
Interested in getting started or have questions?
Display materials in your waiting rooms and lobbies, but don’t stop there. Use them as a quick primer for providers, conversation starters with clients and families or as a tool to reach those not ready to discuss their experience.
Add these three questions to intake and ongoing sessions. If a client or patient identifies concerns, start a conversation and refer them to an approved statewide provider.
Trust your clinical judgment. If you’re working with someone showing signs of a gambling problem, refer them to an approved provider. These clinicians can conduct a comprehensive screening and, if needed, offer no-cost, in-person or telehealth treatment.
Together, you can create a plan to address a person’s addiction and mental health needs.
Help clients and patients take a positive step forward. Through our partnerships with LSS Financial Counseling and GamFin, MNAPG offers free, confidential financial counseling sessions for Minnesotans impacted by gambling.
Experts can guide individuals and families with debt management, budgeting, credit recovery and long-term financial habits and goals.
Minnesotans can reach the state problem gambling helpline 24/7 by calling 1-800-333-4674 or texting HOPE to 53342.
Local chapters of Gambler’s Anonymous can offer connection.
Limiting access can also help people scale back gambling. Gamban restricts access to thousands of online betting sites, including unregulated and offshore platforms. Free, one-year subscriptions are available through MNAPG. Voluntary self-exclusion bars casino patrons from floors and marketing lists at a given location.
Bring the conversation to your team or community.
We regularly present to providers, students, professionals, families and members of the public, helping Minnesotans better understand this ever-evolving issue and access resources.
Presentations are customized, and in-person and virtual options are available.
