New Programs for Problem Gamblers in California

New efforts by the state of California find several state agencies working together to increase assistance for the growing number of gambling addicts. Critics blast the state for doing too little to put a stop to the problem, since the state itself is promoting gambling, as well as operating a lottery.

Recently introduced programs include drafting new regulations that will address problem gambling in casinos and a free online quiz to help identify problem gamblers.

According to state reports, problem gambling, which is defined as "any pattern of gambling that disrupts or compromises personal pursuits or family", is rising sharply throughout California.

Over 30% of the gamblers who call the state's gambling assistance hotline for information and services are seniors and youths, leaving officials particularly concerned.

Almost 4,000 people in California called the hotline, around half of them women, which shows an increase of 13% in female problem gamblers compared to the year before. Also over 30% percent of the total calls came from problem gamblers either under the age of 25 or over the age of 56, rising more than 6% from the 2004 figures.

Two new pamphlets are starting to be distributed by the Office of Problem Gambling, one aimed at youth, entitled "Youth Gambling" and the other, Are You Gambling Away your Retirement?" geared towards senior gamblers. Nearly a million of the brochures addressing legal and illegal gambling have been printed in several languages including English, Spanish, Chinese and Vietnamese.

Parents were urged to keep in mind that gambling can be as damaging to a family as drug and alcohol abuse, and that gambling problems reach a broad range of people.

State wide there is no problem to find gambling opportunities, with state-run lotteries, Indian casinos, card games, sports betting, charity-run bingo and raffles and the advent of internet gambling.

However the state still sees the positive sides of legalised gambling, including revenue for state and local governments alike and increased job creation, not to mention responsible entertainment.