Do You Have a Gambling Problem?  We can help.

While for many, gambling is a leisure-time activity, for some it is a problem, and for others it can become an addiction.

Legalized gambling is a rapidly growing industry, and is available through riverboat casinos, sports betting, Internet gaming, and the state’s lottery. Nearly every highway in Tennessee has billboards advertising the excitement of gambling. Advertising on television and radio, and in newspapers and magazines touts gambling as a fun activity.

What is "Problem Gambling?"

As defined by the National Council on Problem Gambling, problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life:  psychological, physical, social, or vocational.  Problem gamblers often become increasingly preoccupied with gambling; need to bet more money more frequently; experience restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop; and continue to gamble in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.  Gambling addiction has parallels to other addictive disorders including changes in brain chemistry, tolerance, withdrawal, and loss of control.

Is there Problem Gambling in Tennessee?

Based on a report published by the University of Memphis, it has been estimated that there are over 200,000 persons in Tennessee with gambling problems. (Satish Kedia, Ph.D., The SAT Report, University of Memphis, Vol. 1, No. 3, 2004)