Sports betting ads on the radio are about to get a little shorter with Thursday’s announcement that Michigan is (sort of) ditching its state problem gambling helpline in favor of the national 1-800-GAMBLER helpline, which is operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling.
While Michigan’s existing 1-800-270-7117 (catchy!) helpline will remain operational, it will no longer be required to be mentioned at the end of national sportsbook ads now that the state has joined the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network.
“An easily accessible helpline is a vital tool in providing problem gambling support services across the country,” NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte said in a press release. “We applaud the MGCB (Michigan Gaming Control Board) for taking proactive efforts to address the needs of those affected by problem gambling and for recognizing the significance of promoting 1-800-GAMBLER in Michigan.”
One national clearinghouse
As the release goes on to note, Michigan’s adoption of the 1-800-GAMBLER line “helps to move one step closer to consolidating the variety of state-level gambling helplines into one easy-to-remember problem gambling helpline number” — one that serves as an access point for local problem gambling services throughout the U.S.
Calls made to 1-800-GAMBLER from Michigan will be routed to the state’s Department of Health & Human Services. The 24/7 helpline can also be reached by texting 800GAM or online at 1800gamblerchat.org.
“The National Problem Gambling Helpline Network connects individuals struggling with gambling addiction to trained professionals who offer confidential assistance and resources,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “By adopting 1-800-GAMBLER as the statewide problem gambling helpline, the MGCB reinforces its commitment to ensuring a safe and secure gaming environment for players across the state by ensuring that resources for treatment and recovery can be accessed quickly and easily.”