Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has launched a new 30‑minute online training to help 988 crisis line staff better recognize and respond to concerns about problem gambling. The 988 Lifeline is Oregon’s crisis response system. It connects people to immediate support during mental health or substance use crises.
This new training helps crisis responders learn more about the Problem Gambling Helpline, the services available in Oregon, and the signs that someone may be struggling with gambling-related harm. It builds on the partnership between the OHA Problem Gambling Program and the organizations that operate the 988 Lifeline. With this training, 988 staff will be better prepared to guide people to the right help when they reach out.
Problem gambling in Oregon: Key facts
Oregon has worked for a long time to reduce the harms caused by problem gambling. This work includes research, prevention and education, responsible gambling guidelines, treatment, and partnerships with community groups. Today in Oregon:
- Most Oregon adults (71 percent) who gamble aren’t at risk
- About 9 percent are at-risk for gambling-related harms
- About 6 percent have high risk for developing a problem with gambling. Of those people, about 3 percent meet the clinical criteria for Gambling Disorder.
- Most Oregon youth are not gambling, but 23 percent reported gambling in the last three months.
- Many others are affected when someone has a serious gambling issue, including families and loved ones.
Funding and support systems
One percent of Oregon Lottery revenues help fund Oregon’s problem gambling prevention and treatment services. OHA manages these revenues, which provide about $7.5 million each year for local programs, training, data, and community resources. Because this strong network already exists, the new 988 training offers another way to support people as soon as they ask for help. It teaches crisis responders how to recognize gambling concerns and connect callers to the Problem Gambling Helpline and local care.
Building a more connected system of care
Together, these efforts help Oregon support people facing gambling‑related harm at any point of contact. By giving crisis responders more knowledge and clearer ways to link people to the right resources, OHA is helping build a system that is more connected and responsive. This training is another step toward making sure that every person in Oregon can get timely, caring support when they reach out.
How to get help
All OHA problem gambling resources and support are free. Call 1-877-MY-LIMIT or visit the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource website.