Problem Gambling and the Workplace

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Problem Gambling and the Workplace
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Multnomah FallsOregons Top Tourist
Attraction until . . .
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Spirit Mountain CasinoOregons New Top
Attraction
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Definition of Gambling
To risk money or something of value on the
outcome of an unpredictable event or contest.
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Legal Gambling in Oregon
?
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Gambling in Oregon

• Lottery
• Scratch-its
• Megabucks
• Powerball
• Video gaming
• Keno
• Bingo
• Casino gaming

• Sports bets
• Horse racing
• Stocks
• Internet
• Office pools
• Poker/cards
• Bets among friends

The only state that offers more gambling
opportunities than Oregon is Nevada!
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More Popular than Ever
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PROBLEM GAMBLING

• Gambling behavior which causes disruptions in
  any major area of life psychological, physical,
  social or vocational"
• (National Council on Problem Gambling)

PATHOLOGICAL GAMBLING
A chronic disorder that results in the loss of
control over gambling (DSM-IV)
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Levels of Involvement
No Gambling
Pathological
Social
Harmful / Problem
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A Snapshot of Problem Gambling in Oregon

• Adults gt60,000 affected (2.3)
• Youths, 13-17 years old lt10,000 (4)
• Vulnerable populations
• Youth
• College age
• Ethno-cultural minorities
• Elderly
• Increasingly women

Sources Volberg, 2001 Carlson Moore, 1998
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ImplicationsProblem Gamblers Seeking Treatment
in Oregon

• Financial problems
• Average 24,600
• total gambling related debt gt25.5 million
• Not paying bills on time 56
• Employment problems
• Job problems / job loss 28.5
• Not accomplishing responsibilities at work 56
• Crime
• Committing crimes to obtain gambling money 24

Source Moore, T.L., Marotta, J. (2005).
Oregon Gambling Treatment Programs Evaluation
Update.
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ImplicationsProblem Gamblers Seeking Treatment
in Oregon

• Depression
• Suicidal ideations/attempts 11
• Relationship problems
• Loss or jeopardized 23.5
• Concurrent alcohol or drug problems
• Alcohol 29
• Drugs 11
• Tobacco 61

Source Moore, T.L., Marotta, J. (2005).
Oregon Gambling Treatment Programs Evaluation
Update.
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AddictionGambling vs. Substances

• Similarities
• Loss of control
• Denial
• Depression mood swings
• Progressive
• Chasing
• First win (high) remembered
• Blackouts/brownouts
• Use as an escape
• Preoccupation
• Low self esteem high ego
• Use of rituals
• Similar highs

• Differences
• Hidden addiction
• Cant overdose-no saturation point
• Huge financial problems
• Can function at work
• Cant be tested
• Doesnt require ingestion
• Fewer resources available
• Perceptions

Slide courtesy Andy Cartmill, Washington County
HHS
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Unique Dangers of Workplace Gambling

• Convenience
• Video lottery terminals in restaurants, delis,
  bars, taverns
• Internet gambling
• Mobile phones
• Easy to hide problem
• Few outward signs
• Lack of community awareness

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Employment Status Oregon Problem Gamblers in
Treatment
Source Moore, T.L., Marotta, J. (2004).
Oregon Gambling Treatment Programs Evaluation
Update.
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Workplace Signs of a Problem

• Performance Issues
• Time Issues
• Financial Issues

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What Employers Can Do

• Include gambling in workplace policies
• Provide awareness training
• Post Help Line number
  (1-877-2-STOP-NOW)
• Refer employees to EAPs
• Ensure EAPs know about free and confidential
  gambling treatment
• Include family members

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Getting Help in Your Area

• 1-877-2-STOP-NOW
• Help Line, available 24 hrs, every day
• Your treatment agency name here
• Treatment is free for gamblers and loved ones
• More tidbits about your regional treatment agency
  here

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

• Your Name Here
• Your Phone Here
• Your Email Here