Salem, Ore. –Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is highlighting Problem Gambling Awareness Month this March to raise awareness of valuable resources for anyone struggling with problem gambling, including a free digital tool that can aid in curbing gambling.
The app, called Evive, is available for anyone in Oregon seeking to learn safer gambling habits, reduce their gambling or stop gambling all together. The evidence-based mobile tool offers flexible treatment options, access to trained professionals, community support, and ways to reduce time and money spent on betting. To learn more, go to https://www.getevive.com/.
“Reducing the stigma of problem gambling is crucial, and some individuals aren’t ready to acknowledge their gambling problem or seek formal treatment,” said Roxann Jones, problem gambling prevention specialist at OHA. “Evive is a great free tool that can help individuals overcome the stigma and assist in this process.”
In Oregon, an estimated 2.6% of the adult population experiences moderate or serious problems with gambling, and another 5.4% of adults are at risk of developing a problem with gambling. An estimated 3.1% of adolescents in Oregon are at risk of or are currently experiencing a gambling disorder.
OHA contracted with Evive in spring of 2024 making it available free to those enrolled in OHA treatment programs. In July of 2024, the Oregon State Lottery contracted with the entity for free access to everyone living in Oregon.
“Easy access to gambling products on your smartphone and other mobile devices can make it difficult to control gambling urges,” said Greta Coe, problem gambling services manager at OHA. “The average age of clients in Oregon’s publicly funded treatment system is 35-50 years old, and most struggle with problem gambling for years before seeking help.”
Help and counseling services are available free to anyone living in Oregon who has problems related to gambling and those directly impacted including family and friends. Some common signs of a person struggling with gambling harms include:
- Being preoccupied with gambling
- Feeling the need to gamble more despite losses
- Gambling alone and/or more often
- Gambling to forget worries, calm nerves or reduce depression
- Losing interest in other things, such as school, work, home life
- Withdrawal from family and friends
- Financial problems from gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble
In Oregon, gambling addiction counseling and support services are confidential and free. Visit the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource, OPGR.org, to learn more or call the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-695-4648 (MY LIMIT).
