1 in 5 people with gambling problem seek help

Miami, Florida – According to a new study, one in every 400 has tried to get help for addiction to gambling – globally.

The research in the scientific journal “Addiction” looked at dozens of studies over the past decade. Findings show that when it comes to moderate-risk gamblers, one in 25 reach out for help. But among those who have a gambling problem, one in five seek help.

2-million adults have a gambling addiction in the United States, the National Council on Problem Gambling estimates. And another 4 to 6 million are considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems.

Approximately 85% of adults have gambled at least once in their lives, 60% in the past year.

According to the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network, last year it experienced a 45% jump in calls from the year prior.

A person should seek help if they feel the need to be secretive about their gambling, have trouble controlling their gambling and can’t walk away, they gamble even when they don’t have the money, or if family or friends are worried, experts said.

Some form of gambling is legal in 48 states and the District of Columbia. Only Hawaii and Utah have completely outlawed gambling of any kind.