What Is 800-GAMBLER? Your Guide to Gambling Addiction Support
Compulsive gambling can be isolating, overwhelming, and fraught with despair. But there is hope. 800gambler.org plays a crucial role by providing support and resources to individuals grappling with gambling addiction. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc. (CCGNJ) is a private, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization that has been helping problem gamblers and their families navigate through the crisis.
It also collaborates with the New Jersey Department of Human Services to collate and supply data to the executive and legislative branches of the state government.
The social stigma surrounding gambling addiction presents significant challenges. 800-GAMBLER addresses the issue by offering crucial services to identify hidden addiction, providing tools (Gamban) and free apps like BetBlocker to block gambling websites, among other techniques like self-exclusion and meetings.
Contents
800-GAMBLER actively engages with individuals and communities through various channels, including educational campaigns, workshops, and collaborations with stakeholders. It offers some of the best free self-learning courses aligned with the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC) and Board Approved Clinical Consultant (BACC).
Additionally, it contributes toward building a community where licensed clinicians and qualified counselors can become CCGNJ providers and help people fight mental health issues and addiction.
800-GAMBLER, along with other organizations such as GamTalk, GambleAware, and GamCare, fosters responsible gambling practices.
What Does 1-800 Gambler Do?
800gambler.org boasts a rich history of serving the community with its mission centered on promoting responsible gambling and providing support to those impacted by addiction. It offers a wide range of programs and services to assist New Jersey’s residents, including:
- Public Awareness and Information
- Prevention Programs
- Intervention and Outreach
- Training for Professionals
- Treatment
- Advocacy
With notable partnerships and endorsements, it has established itself as a trusted authority in responsible gambling.
Background
800-GAMBLER is composed of dedicated individuals from various backgrounds.
It has long been a leading force in providing:
- Support for problem gamblers
- Education (including 30 hours of free training)
- Treatment and counseling
- Hope and motivation for those affected by gambling disorders
The Origins
What is 800-GAMBLER? Is 800-GAMBLER real? The roots of the helpline can be traced back to the growing need for resources and assistance in New Jersey.
Initially, 800-GAMBLER was launched as a response to the alarming prevalence of problem gambling in the state. It addressed the need for confidential support and provided an accessible avenue for individuals to seek help.
Dedication
Recognizing the need to raise awareness and provide specialized services, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey has worked tirelessly to foster alliances with:
- Healthcare professionals
- Governmental bodies
- Other relevant stakeholders
This strategic collaboration has enabled the organization to expand its reach and enhance its ability to offer comprehensive support and treatment options for problem gambling.
National Problem Gambling Awareness Month
800-GAMBLER has played a pivotal role in advocating for the importance of education related to gambling addiction. It has participated in events like National Problem Gambling Awareness Month and has embarked on public awareness campaigns.
It has been instrumental in enlightening the public and healthcare providers about the signs of addiction, highlighting:
- Risks
- Warning signs
- Available resources for problem gambling
Services Offered
800-GAMBLER offers a range of services, including counseling sessions, educational materials, online forums, self-exclusion tools, websites (GAMBAN), and free apps (Betblocker), to block gambling websites. These resources cater to individuals at various stages of their journey toward responsible gambling practices.
Key Problems 800gambler.org Addresses
- Problem Gambling: This refers to the urge to continue making wagers despite the risks. At the extreme, this refers to making compulsive deposits to play casino games without planning for the consequences. This can lead to financial difficulties, emotional distress, and strained relationships.
- Lack of Awareness: Many individuals may not recognize the signs of problem gambling or be aware of the resources available to help them. Lack of awareness exacerbates the issue and prevents people from seeking timely assistance.
- Stigma Surrounding Gambling Addiction: There is often a stigma associated with gambling addiction. This can potentially deter individuals from seeking help or disclosing their struggles. This stigma contributes to the isolation and shame experienced by those affected.
- Limited Access to Support Services: Some individuals may face barriers in accessing support services due to factors such as geographical location, financial constraints, or lack of knowledge about the available resources.
- Vulnerability of At-Risk Groups: Certain demographics, such as youth, low-income individuals, and those with mental health issues, are more vulnerable to developing gambling problems. Targeted interventions are required to address their specific needs.
Find more information; see the table below.
Service | Description |
|---|---|
Helpline Support | A confidential helpline staffed by trained professionals available 24/7 to provide support, information, and referrals for individuals struggling with problem gambling or affected by a loved one’s gambling behavior. |
Counseling Services | One-on-one sessions are conducted by qualified therapists or counselors. They are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each individual. Counseling may include:
|
Online Resources | A sweeping collection of online resources, including:
|
Support Groups | You can also visit forums such as Gamblers Anonymous and seek assistance through private virtual meetings or attend peer-led support groups where individuals affected by problem gambling can:
|
Financial Counseling | Financial counseling services aimed at assisting individuals in managing their finances and addressing the economic consequences of problem gambling, such as:
In fact, CCGNJ welcomes qualified, independently licensed clinicians who pursue the ICGC certification and can apply and contribute as CCGNJ Certified Treatment Providers. |
Family Counseling | Family counseling helps people improve communication, rebuild trust, and develop coping strategies to support recovery. It provides a directory of in-person and virtual Gam-Anon meetings in the US and a detailed meeting directory for family members to choose the desired state and schedule meetings. The organization offers other resources, such as a Treatment List, Problem Gambling Identification, and Warning Signs across Demographic Groups, and the International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization (IPGGC), to aid family members. |
Prevention Programs | Educational workshops, seminars, and presentations are conducted in schools, workplaces, and community settings. They help raise awareness about the risks of gambling. |
Self-Exclusion Programs | Self-exclusion programs allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from participating in gambling activities at casinos, online gambling sites, and other venues. |
Gambling Addiction Assessments | Assessments conducted by trained professionals can evaluate an individual’s gambling behavior, identify potential signs of addiction, and determine the most appropriate course of action for treatment and support. |
Through its efforts, 800-GAMBLER strives to achieve positive outcomes such as increased awareness about responsible gambling practices, prevention of gambling addiction, and support for affected individuals and their families. By offering a lifeline to those in need, it contributes significantly to the well-being of communities.
The 2023 Fact Sheet by 800gambler.org contains the following key points:
- 1 in 20 American adults experience gambling difficulties in their lifetime, with 95% of Americans having gambled.
- Adolescents and college students are particularly susceptible to gambling problems.
- 1 in 3 substance abusers also struggle with gambling.
- Individuals of lower socioeconomic status, as well as certain racial and age demographics, have increased vulnerability to gambling issues.
These statistics collectively emphasize the wide-reaching impact of problem gambling on diverse demographics and the importance of accessible and effective support and treatment services.
The BetBlocker App
The BetBlocker app is a valuable resource designed in partnership with 800gambler.org.
This charitable service, funded through donations, offers a range of features to help users manage and minimize their access to gambling websites:
- Over 77,900 gambling websites and 1,500 apps can be blocked.
- Quick 2-minute setup with no registration required.
- Calendaring feature to restrict gambling access in advance, tailored to individual periods of vulnerability.
- Parental Controls to safeguard children from exposure to gambling and adult content.
- Support for multiple devices, providing comprehensive protection.
- “Tell Us Your Story” initiative encourages users to share their experiences with the app. It provides morale boosts for the BetBlocker team and inspiration for others.
- Commitment to promoting responsible gambling management (for those seeking to stop gambling entirely and for individuals aiming to regulate their activities responsibly).
- Referral to the Responsible Gambling Directory to connect users with additional support services.
- Free of charge and funded through charitable donations. This ensures accessibility to users worldwide.
Engagement and Outreach
800-GAMBLER interacts with the community through outreach programs, workshops, and online campaigns aimed at promoting responsible gambling practices. Its efforts extend beyond mere assistance to fostering a culture of awareness and empathy towards those struggling with gambling addiction.
Directions of Engagement
800gambler.org takes an omnichannel approach to onboarding problem gamblers. Ito helps them through programs spanning from inspirational videos, workshops, free learning courses, to cognitive-behavioural therapy and counseling.
Through proactive engagement efforts, 800-GAMBLER seeks to foster a culture of responsibility and support. Ultimately, it contributes to healthier and safer gambling environments for all.
The following directions in responsible gambling are a priority for 800gambler.org:
- Community Outreach: The organization collaborates with local communities through partnerships with schools, community centers, and other relevant institutions to raise awareness about responsible gambling practices.
- Online Presence: It uses social media platforms, forums, and webinars to reach a broader audience and provide educational resources and support.
- Collaboration with Stakeholders: It partners with government agencies, gambling industry stakeholders, and mental health professionals to develop comprehensive strategies for addressing problem gambling.
- Crisis Intervention: It provides immediate support and intervention through 24/7 helplines and online chat services for individuals in crisis or seeking urgent assistance.
Examples of Campaigns, Educational Resources, and Programs
See the table below for more examples and details.
Campaigns | Description |
The “Know Your Limits” Campaign | An educational campaign that resembles the programs by ICRG and Gam-Anon aimed at promoting responsible gambling habits and encouraging individuals to set personal limits on their gambling activities. |
“Youth Prevention Program” | A targeted program designed to educate young people about the risks of gambling and provide strategies for making informed decisions. Includes school presentations, interactive workshops, and online resources. |
“Gambling Addiction Awareness Month” | An annual awareness campaign held in collaboration with mental health organizations, featuring events, seminars, and media outreach to destigmatize gambling addiction and promote help-seeking behavior. |
“Family Support Group” | A support group for family members and friends affected by a loved one’s gambling addiction. It provides a safe space for sharing experiences, accessing resources, and receiving guidance from trained facilitators. |
Solutions by 800gambler.org
The provider offers a range of actionable solutions and services. These include helplines staffed by trained professionals, counseling sessions, self-help tools, and educational materials.
Additionally, it provides online forums for discussion. These enable individuals to share their experiences and seek advice from peers in similar situations.
Problem | Solution Provided by 800-GAMBLER |
|---|---|
Problem Gambling | Helplines that are staffed by trained professionals offering support and guidance. |
Lack of Awareness | Educational campaigns that raise awareness about problem gambling and available resources. |
Stigma Surrounding Addiction | Counseling services that emphasize confidentiality and non-judgmental support. |
Limited Access to Services | Online platforms that provide resources and support accessible to all, regardless of location or financial status. |
Vulnerability of At-Risk Groups | Tailored outreach programs and resources that address the unique needs of at-risk demographics. |
How to Get Assistance
Individuals can easily access the services offered by 800gambler.org by visiting the website or reaching out via the contact information provided.
Helplines are available round-the-clock. To support diverse populations, the website can be translated into Spanish, French, and Chinese.
Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
Website | |
Address | Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, Inc. 3635 Quakerbridge Rd. Ste. 7 Hamilton, NJ 08619 |
Phone | +1-609-588-5515 or 1-800-GAMBLER |
X | |
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-council-on-compulsive-gambling-of-new-jersey-inc./ | |
YouTube | |
For any gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER, or reach out through:
- The Contact form
- Chat
- In-person meetings in your neighborhood
- Weekly phone meetings
What happens when you call 1-800-GAMBLER?
This step-by-step guide walks you through the process of getting confidential, compassionate help.
- Dial the 1 -800- GAMBLER number. Your call is completely anonymous and confidential.
- Connect for free, 24/7.
- Speak with trained specialists who understand gambling‑related issues and provide compassionate support.
- Receive referrals to local treatment centers or counseling programs suited to your needs.
Testimonials and Success Stories
Countless testimonials and success stories attest to the transformative impact of 800gambler.org’s services. From reclaiming control over their lives to rebuilding relationships, individuals share their journeys of recovery. This highlights the invaluable support provided by the organization. At Jackpot Sounds, we recognize the importance of such organizations and encourage anyone facing gambling difficulties to reach out for help through 1-800-GAMBLER.
