Expert Insight on the Growing Issue of Problem Gambling in Virginia
Carolyn E. Hawley, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at VCU’s College of Health Professions. Through her extensive community-based research, she has developed valuable insights into the risks associated with gambling and has shared important findings related to problem gambling.
Challenges in Recognizing Problem Gambling
Dr. Hawley emphasizes that the United States has not conducted a comprehensive national study on gambling disorders since 1998 due to a lack of federal funding, resulting in a significant lack of current data. Based on her research, she estimates that approximately six to eight million Americans face difficulties related to gambling. This group includes both those officially diagnosed with gambling disorder and individuals experiencing less obvious or undiagnosed gambling issues. She estimates that around two million people fulfill the diagnostic criteria for gambling disorder.
She points out that gambling addiction is often a hidden problem, unlike substance abuse which can show physical signs. “There are no visible symptoms like bloodshot eyes or odors,” she explains. This invisibility means the addiction can go unnoticed until serious problems arise, such as financial losses within families or legal troubles stemming from gambling debts.
Efforts to Address Problem Gambling in Virginia
As president of the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG), Dr. Hawley leads the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline (VPGH), which receives funding from the Virginia Lottery. She highlights the difficulties in connecting those affected to treatment services, mainly due to limited federal investment in gambling disorder programs compared to other addictions.
Her current focus is on utilizing existing data to improve policymaking, build workforce capacity, influence legislation, and enhance service delivery. The aim is to identify ways to reach individuals earlier and provide more effective support and care.
Thanks to advocacy efforts by Dr. Hawley and the VCPG, Virginia established the Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund in 2020. This fund is supported by a portion of tax revenue from sports betting and casino gambling, and it is managed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
With dedicated funding available, the Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline developed a Treatment and Recovery Model designed to offer quick and coordinated access to care. This model includes continuous data collection for research, a network of peer recovery specialists across regions, and a statewide referral system. These specialists play a vital role in encouraging those affected by gambling problems, offering hope and sharing their own experiences to inspire recovery.
Dr. Hawley notes that since introducing peer recovery services, there has been a notable increase in the number of people seeking assistance, suggesting that many feel more comfortable opening up to individuals who have faced similar challenges.
