Sieda Behavioral Health and Treatment Services are increasing awareness of the dangers of gambling in our ten-county catchment area. Staff is speaking with lottery retailers and patrons, looking at trends in gaming and discussing signs of problem gambling. As part of this effort, the team is promoting Sieda’s Gambling Treatment and Prevention Programs and the Iowa hotline 1-800-BETSOFF.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) study, Gambling Attitudes, and Behaviors: A 2018 Survey of Adult Iowans, estimates over 1.7 million (73.8%) adult Iowans gambled during the past 12 months. However, about 315,000 (13.6%) are classified as “at-risk,” meaning they are experiencing one or more symptoms of problem gambling. Learn more in the Sieda story: Study of Gambling in Iowa and Prevention Concerns.

The same study shows that in 12 months, there is significantly more casino gambling among at-risk gamblers. 71% of people at-risk, gambled in casinos compared to 40% of not-at-risk individuals. Similarly, 47% of at-risk gamblers were more likely to engage in other types of betting activities (lotteries, scratcher tickets, betting games with family or friends, and others). For more information visit IDPH’s: Gambling Behaviors.

There are two types of casino gamblers:
  • Casual gamblers:  Casino visitors who have gambled at a U.S. casino between 1 and 9 times in the past 12 months.
  • Avid gambler:  Casino visitors who have gambled at a U.S. casino 10 or more times in the past 12 months.
The good news is reflected in the following statistics:
  • 9 in 10 casual gamblers set a budget before they visit a casino
  • 90% of casual gamblers report success in tracking their spending
  • 8 in 10 casual gamblers are aware of responsible gaming resources
  • 9 in 10 avid gamblers are aware of responsible gaming resources
Ways Sieda Behavioral Health and Treatment Services (BHTS) Can Help

For information on Sieda BHTS assessment and counseling for individuals, couples, and families that are experiencing problem gambling: Problem Gambling Treatment Services 

For information on gambling prevention services that help educate community groups: Gambling Prevention Services

Or call Sieda Behavioral Health and Treatment Services at 641-683-6747. They can answer questions and get you the help you and your family need.

Another great resource is Iowa’s Gambling Treatment Program at 1-800-BETSOFF to be connected to a therapist in your area.