Virginia’s legal gambling industry is on the verge of experiencing a significant expansion, with the potential establishment of five physical casinos alongside the existing online sports betting. This expansion, coupled with the presence of a state lottery, opens up numerous opportunities for both residents and visitors of Old Dominion to partake in gambling activities.
Just like any other state, Virginia also has a minority of residents who struggle with compulsive gambling. Recognizing this, the VA Lottery, responsible for overseeing gambling in the state, is actively developing programs to assist individuals facing such challenges.
While certain aspects of this initiative, such as a comprehensive self-exclusion program, are still in progress, it is important to note that there are currently available resources for individuals facing problem gambling issues in the state.
Identifying a person’s compulsive gambling issue is a key initial step in addressing problem gambling. While individual factors play a role, there are certain shared characteristics that can help recognize this issue.
What is problem gambling?
Problem gambling is essentially gambling that has evolved into a detrimental issue for an individual or those associated with them, such as family members.
Compulsive gambling can lead to various challenges, such as financial troubles, strained relationships, diminished work performance, and even the development of a full-blown addictive disorder. It is crucial to acknowledge that individuals dealing with compulsive gambling require counseling and support, rather than being burdened with guilt or shame for their struggles.
What are the signs of a gambling problem? Evaluate your responses to these questions as they can determine if you should consider seeking assistance.
- Are you in the habit of risking money that is not easily expendable through gambling?
- Did you ever take out a loan to gamble?
- When you feel stressed about other matters, do you engage in gambling activities?
- Have you ever chosen not to use your “gambling money” for essential purchases or bill payments?
- Have you ever sold any belongings in order to obtain money for gambling?
- Are you facing challenges in establishing boundaries when it comes to your gambling expenditures and time allocation?
- Are you often told by your family and friends that you devote excessive money or time to gambling?
- Have you ever prioritized gambling over family commitments or work?
- Do you experience feelings of depression or irritability when you are not engaged in gambling activities?
If any of these conditions apply to you, there is a possibility that you have a gambling problem. Fortunately, the state offers complimentary resources that can assist you in determining the most suitable course of action for your situation.
Free resources for Virginians with compulsive gambling issues
The lottery, in partnership with the VA Council on Problem Gambling, operates a confidential helpline that is available 24/7 and completely free. For assistance, please dial 1-888-532-3500.
If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can utilize the chat function on the VACPG website. Trained staff members will assist you in devising a strategy to regain control over your gambling habits.
In addition, the National Council on Problem Gambling offers a plethora of complimentary resources. Gamblers Anonymous is a support group designed for individuals dealing with compulsive gambling problems, while Gam-Anon serves as a support group for the loved ones of those struggling with such issues.
In the near future, Virginians will have the option to bar themselves from gambling establishments and websites, which is considered one of the most effective methods for individuals dealing with gambling problems to regain control.
Self-exclusion from gambling in Virginia
The regulations for casinos and sportsbooks by the VA Lottery are still being finalized. However, there is a possibility that the regulations for sports betting may be completed by September 15. It is worth noting that the draft regulations do outline a self-exclusion program.
The regulations prohibit a sportsbook from granting access to individuals on the list, let alone permitting them to create an account, deposit funds, or make bets. Moreover, they also restrict future VA sportsbook operators from advertising their services to individuals on the list.
If casino referendums are approved by voters, it is probable that the lottery will impose comparable regulations on casinos. In the majority of states, self-exclusion policies mandate that physical casino establishments must escort individuals on the exclusion list out of their premises if they are discovered.
Virginians are presented with three choices under the provisional program regarding the duration of their self-exclusion: a period of two years, five years, or an indefinite exclusion. Individuals in Virginia who choose the shorter time frames are required to submit a reinstatement request once the designated time has elapsed.
The presence of the term “self” must be emphasized in this program. It is not permissible to include any other person on the list, regardless of your relationship with them.
One particular type of gambling in VA will not be part of the program, although this is mainly due to practical reasons rather than intentional exclusion.
Responsible gambling and the Virginia Lottery
Despite the presence of numerous retailers, effectively implementing a self-exclusion program for lottery ticket sales seems unattainable. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the lottery does not disregard caution in this matter.
In reality, the lottery actively organizes numerous campaigns annually with the purpose of promoting responsible gambling. Moreover, retailers are mandated by the lottery to display information regarding the availability of problem gambling resources.
Daily fantasy sports is a prevalent form of gaming in VA. Leading companies like DraftKings and FanDuel provide numerous tools and resources to help players regulate their spending and time devoted to playing DFS.
Online racebooks follow the same protocol. For instance, TVG provides features that allow bettors to restrict access for a specific duration and manage the funding sources they can utilize for depositing funds.
However, just like any other tools, they become useless if not utilized properly. In this situation, the individual’s initiative plays a crucial role.
Wrapping up responsible gambling in Virginia
As the gambling industry in Old Dominion progresses, organizations dedicated to helping problem gamblers will gain valuable insights on how to optimize their services. Nevertheless, the active involvement of individuals remains crucial for successful treatment.
Currently, there are ample resources accessible to Virginians struggling with compulsive gambling. As the state’s gambling industry continues to grow, the range of available treatment options will also expand.