Through a network of state-funded local treatment programs, problem gamblers can get confidential help in virtually every area of the state at no cost to them.

The Oregon Legislature was the first to guarantee access to such treatment for all its citizens. In 1991, the legislature authorized the Oregon Lottery to offer video games but also mandated the development of gambling addiction treatment programs paid for by Lottery revenues.

Treatment programs in Oregon are operated by the counties, or by contract through local counties. In some areas, special regional programs have been established. The Gambling Programs Manager in the State Office of Mental Health and Addiction Services, with the advice of the Problem Gambling Services Advisory Committee, oversees the performance of local programs. The Office sets standards, provides training, directs funds and monitors program effectiveness.

For immediate help call

Pathological gambling has been recognized for years by the American Psychiatric Association, but organized treatment programs, while beneficial, have been limited. When the legislature mandated treatment services, the state required all programs to use a consistent reporting and follow-up method. Today, detailed data gathered from every person treated in Oregon allows the Gambling Programs Manager to identify trends as well as evaluate program effectiveness. The database is one of the largest groupings of consistently tracked problem gamblers in treatment anywhere, offering an important resource for treatment professionals.  There are specialized services for minority populations.