The Pari-Mutuel Wagering Act became law in Iowa in 1983, paving the way for horse and dog racing, casino gaming, and the Iowa Lottery. The economic benefits of Iowa’s gambling industry are well-known; according to the Iowa Gaming Association, state casinos generated $306,575,000 in tax revenue and employed nearly 10,000 people in FY2010. Since the lottery’s inception in 1985, more than $1 billion has been raised for state programs.

What may not be so well-known is the heavy price individuals and their families and communities pay related to problem gambling. The social consequences of problem gambling include broken relationships, mental health problems, ruined finances and lost jobs.

Of those seeking problem gambling treatment in Iowa, 30 percent reported gambling-related debt over $20,000, 32 percent have filed bankruptcy, and 17 percent have been arrested in the past 12 months. National studies have found that 17 percent of pathological gamblers have attempted suicide, 20 percent have major depression and 76 percent have a lifetime history of a substance use.

Despite the heavy burden of problem gambling, there is clear evidence that people can find relief through treatment. Research by the University of Northern Iowa Center for Social and Behavioral Research found that six months after treatment for problem gambling, 93 percent of those interviewed said they were gambling much less, 67 percent said their financial situation was much better and 92 percent said their life was much better than at admission.

National Problem Gambling Awareness Week is March 6 to 12, 2011. More information about problem gambling and help that is available can be found by calling 1-800-BETSOFF (1-800-238-7633) or at:

www.1800betsoff.org