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Washington Problem Gambling Grows with Casino Growth

WASHINGTON – As reported by the Seattle Intelligencer: "As legalized gambling continues its swift rise in Washington, the quiet, parallel growth of problem gambling has marched right along with it -- often with disastrous consequences.

"…Gambling revenues statewide grew to more than $1.3 billion last year, 16 percent higher than in fiscal 2002 and more than double the revenues reported in 1998.

"Likewise, more people than ever are painfully acknowledging that they have gambling problems.

"A decade ago in Western Washington, there were four Gamblers Anonymous chapters, where problem gamblers could share their experiences and seek support. Now, 28 groups in the region meet weekly, and the average size of each meeting has more than doubled, to 20 to 25 people, and the numbers continue to grow.

"…Experts, and gamblers themselves, say gambling addictions often are more difficult to spot than alcoholism and drug dependencies -- and can be harder to kick.

"…For most people who engage in it, gambling is an exciting diversion, a relatively benign if expensive form of entertainment.

"Gambling becomes a problem, according to experts, when it disrupts or damages personal lives or careers. Pathological gambling, an evolutionary spiral downward, occurs when the gambler loses control over his gambling; when he gambles more often and for higher amounts; and when he continues to gamble despite adverse consequences.

"…According to the 1999 report of the congressionally mandated National Gambling Impact Study Commission, problem gamblers cost society $715 each annually; the more serious pathological gamblers, $1,200 per year…"

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