ABOUT HELPLINE

What does the Connecticut Problem Gambling Helpline do?
The Problem Gambling Helpline (PGH) serves three main functions for the gambler and/or family member who calls.

	To refer or provide information to problem gamblers and concerned significant others to appropriate resources that include: - Problem Gambling Services/Bettor Choice treatment programs in their area. - Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon meetings or other self-help groups. - Literature about problem gambling - Other State Helplines or Affiliate Councils of the National Council on Problem Gambling - Other relevant community resources as deemed appropriate for meeting the caller’s needs
	To provide resource information to professionals and employers about problem gambling, including information on Gamblers Anonymous/Gam-Anon meetings, treatment programs, training opportunities for staff/employees, literature, etc.
	To serve as a point source for public information. The Helpline may receive calls from the media seeking requests for statistics, interviews, or other information as a result of local or national press, interviews or other media coverage of issues related to problem gambling. In addition, the press may be seeking to utilize or cite the Helpline number or the Council number/website as a resource for a story.

Problem Gambling Helpline Mission
The primary mission of the Problem Gambling Helpline is to provide free, immediate, and culturally and linguistically relevant support and referral assistance, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to problem gamblers, family members and others who have been adversely affected by problem gambling.

Goals

	Assist individuals and community groups to obtain access to a range of problem gambling information and services;
	Collect and widely disseminate information about the demographics of problem gamblers and significant others and the negative effects of problem gambling on individuals, families and the community;
	Utilize Helpline data to target at-risk and underserved groups for educational and prevention programs;
	Utilize Helpline data to advocate for adequate funding for services and to inform public policy;
	Conduct evaluations of Helpline operations, linkages and subsequent services to help improve Helpline and treatment services.

Problem Gambling Helpline Background
In November 1993, the Connecticut Problem Gambling Helpline (PGH) was introduced to the New England states of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Dr. Marvin Steinberg, current Executive Director of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling was the first to answer Helpline Calls. In November, 1994, the Helpline was expanded. The Helpline operates 24 hours a day/7 days a week for callers seeking information about problem gambling or help with a gambling problem. Currently, the PGH calls are answered by trained Call Specialists at United Way of Connecticut 2-1-1 Infoline. These specialists assist the caller in gathering needed information, exploring options for treatment, and/or providing support during a time of crisis. Referrals to treatment services and/or self help groups such as Gamblers Anonymous or Gam-Anon are often made.

The Helpline telephone number is posted at several locations throughout the state of Connecticut. Foxwoods Casino and Mohegan Sun display the number at casino payphones and in restrooms and have also developed a brochure that is displayed at various locations throughout the casino. The Helpline number is also displayed at lottery outlets throughout Connecticut.