Gambling addictions on the rise in Florida

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by Change | 20 Jul 2009

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Florida has continued to see a substantial growth in the number of people seeking addiction treatment for gambling problems over recent months, as the introduction of blackjack and the pressures of the recession continue to have a major impact on society.

rehab centers in Florida are seeing plenty of business from people coming to them with gambling addictions, new figures have revealed.

According to statistics released by the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG), there has been a five per cent increase in the number of calls made to its problem gambling helpline in the past year, but a 19 per cent jump in calls over the past two years.

The figures highlight the growing problem of gambling addictions in the state, with more people looking to find rehab clinics where they can tackle their problems and begin addiction recovery programs.

Furthermore, the organization has warned that things could get worse in the future as more opportunities for gambling are made available.

"As a result of the expansion of gambling in the state and the additional gambling opportunities and venues that will become available in the future, we would expect the number of individuals seeking help to continue to rise," said Pat Fowler, executive director of the FCCG.

It was reported earlier this year that gambling addictions had increased in Florida since the state legalized blackjack.

Experts have also suggested the financial pressures brought about by the economic downturn are leading many people to become addicted to gambling as they seek to win their fortune.

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