Do you have a problem with compulsive gambling? There is help.

Fast Facts

• More than 80 percent of U.S. adults have reportedly gambled at least once in the past year and have done so responsibly. Approximately one percent of adults (two million individuals), however, meet the criteria of a pathological gambler. Another 2 to 3 percent have less significant, yet serious, problems with their gambling. (1)

• One in three Minnesotans say they know someone with a gambling problem. (2)

• A major depressive disorder is likely to occur in 76 percent of pathological gamblers.(3)

• In a study of gamblers enrolled in a treatment program, 10 percent considered and formulated plans to commit suicide within six months of enrollment to treatment.(4)

• Nearly half of Minnesotans think people with lower incomes are more likely to develop a gambling problem. However, like alcohol and drug addiction, it crosses the entire economic spectrum. (2)

• Nine in 10 Minnesotans say they would feel comfortable talking to a friend or family member about a gambling problem. (2)

• Minnesota is one of 29 states that fund problem gambling programs. (5)

• Minnesota has a toll-free, 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, confidential Helpline providing information and referrals for problem gamblers and other concerned individuals: 1-800-333-HOPE begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 1-800-333-HOPE end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

• Eight in 10 Minnesotans do not know of a financial resource available to those who need problem gambling treatment but cannot afford to pay for it. However, the State of Minnesota will provide treatment if insurance does not cover it. (2)

• In 2006, 1,150 individuals received state-funded treatment from problem gambling treatment providers. (6)

• 93 treatment providers in 111 locations throughout the state are registered with the Minnesota Department of Human Services to provide outpatient treatment.

• Family members and/or significant others affected by negative consequences of problem gambling can access treatment and funding even if the gambler is unwilling to participate in treatment.



1) National Council on Problem Gambling, March 2003.



2) Minnesota Department of Human Services’ Consumer Study, 2002



3) Unwin, B.K.; Davis, M.K.; & Leeuw, J.B. “Pathological gambling,” American Family Physician, February 2000.



4) Moore, Thomas L., Ph.D. Gambling Treatment Programs Evaluation Update, 2002.



5) Association of Problem Gambling Service Administrators, 2007.



6) Minnesota Department of Human Services