19-06-2025
Help on gambling is just a call away
As online sports betting and casino apps surge in West Virginia, mental health advocates see a crisis level in gambling for young adults — specifically in Morgantown.
The West Virginia 1-800-GAMBLER helpline, operated by First Choice Services, is seeing its busiest year yet. The number of callers seeking help has increased tremendously since the legalization of mobile sports betting and online casino gaming, helpline officials said.
'Every year I say it's the busiest year, and every year, the real calls keep going up,' helpline representative Sheila Moran said. 'The demographics have shifted. It used to be mostly middle-aged women calling. Now it's overwhelmingly younger men, especially in college towns like Morgantown.'
With a university, a strong sports culture and students experiencing independence for the first time, Morgantown has become a hotspot for gambling activity. Many callers began betting casually only to find themselves hooked after a big win, Moran said.
'That early high is dangerous. People do not realize how addicting it can be to feel like a winner,' Moran said. 'It's not about money. It's about chasing that feeling.'
The 1-800-GAMBLER line offers free, confidential support 24/7. Unlike some national services that have moved toward automation, this helpline still connects callers to real people. The support is widespread and something for each person's comfort level.
There are counselor-led support groups, one-on-one therapy with licensed professionals, peer support with others in long-term recovery, self-help resources like podcasts and books, and a new mobile app called PG Connections to connect users with anonymous peer support across the state.
First Choice Services also works with family members who may be affected by a loved one's gambling. Parents concerned about their children — or children concerned about their parents — are welcome to call for guidance.
'Ten years ago, if you asked people if they knew someone with a gambling problem, you'd get a few raised hands,' said Moran. 'Now, every hand in the room goes up and everyone has a story.'
The organization has also begun outreach in high schools, where gambling is becoming more common among teens.
The helpline can be reached by calling or texting 1-800-GAMBLER or visiting to chat with a real person online.
'We want people to know that recovery is possible,' Moran said. 'You don't have to hit rock bottom before reaching out. We are here to help at any stage.'
