'The need for treatment... doubles': Advocate shares warning amid calls for sports betting in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — As lawmakers and state leaders tout the money sports betting can bring to Oklahoma, one advocate is sharing his concerns.

Wiley Harwell, executive director of the Oklahoma Association on Problem Gambling & Gaming, warned that legalizing sports betting could make gambling disorders worse in the state.

According to the American Gaming Association, 36 states and the District of Columbia have legal sports betting available.

Harwell asserted such areas have seen an increased need for services as a result.

"None of the organizations like myself or the state programs have been ready for what was getting ready to happen. Their helpline calls have tripled or quadrupled in that period of time. The need for treatment... doubles," he explained.

A 2022 OAPGG survey found that 6.3 percent of Oklahoma adults had a gambling disorder. Another 23.5 percent were at risk of developing such a disorder.

Harwell noted, "30 percent of the population is struggling with gambling to some degree in their life, which is about a million people in this state. That's almost unbelievable."

In his view, the disorders can be difficult to treat because the client first has to admit that gambling has a hold over his or her life.

He also added that the disorders can be tied to depression and thoughts of despair—and even suicide.

"If you compare the number of opportunities there are to gamble in Oklahoma versus the availability of help, we're the second highest-risk state in the nation other than Nevada," Harwell observed.

According to the OAPGG executive director, Oklahoma has approximately $1 million set aside for treatment but 143 casinos —a gap he wants to see close.

He advocated for strong guidelines to be set in place, financial support for treatment, and mandatory participation in responsible gambling programs.

Harwell stressed the need for public awareness of both the issue of disorders and of the help available.

Those struggling can call 1-800-GAMBLER. The line is open 24/7 and is confidential.

A list of organizations in Oklahoma offering assistance can be found here.

Those struggling with thoughts of suicide can call 988 for free, confidential, 24/7 help.