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Arizona partnering with healthcare provider to support people struggling with problem gambling
Arizona is set to invest heavily in a peer support system to provide another resource for promoting responsible gaming online and at tribal casinos.
Arizona residents will soon have the ability to make connections with each other related to safer gaming. The state could launch a new problem gaming peer support system by the end of 2026.
Arizona expanding problem gambling support resources
According to Matthew Casey of KJZZ, Arizona has allocated $350,000 for the creation of "a peer support program for people with gambling problems." To facilitate that creation, the Arizona Department of Gaming has enlisted the aid of Dezerve Counseling.
Casey quotes Arizona Division of Problem Gambling Director Elise Mikkelsen as stating that the program could begin "maybe by the end of this fiscal year, towards the summer." Casey adds that the program will include financial counseling.
However, details are currently scant on what the program will consist of otherwise. In Arizona, there is currently no legal way to play on online casino sites for real money.
However, legal online sports wagering via several licensed apps is available. There are numerous physical tribal casinos within the state's borders as well that could ultimately offer games like real money blackjack online.
For people who experience any level of disordered gaming, peer support may make a difference.
Peer support adds depth to interventions
Mikkelsen explained that, "when someone talks to a peer who has been there, shame and isolation is reduced. People are more likely to seek help when they feel understood and not judged." That is the concept behind peer support for all mental health issues, not disordered gaming specifically.
Other peer support networks like Gamblers Anonymous exist and are available to people throughout the United States. Building out a program specific to Arizona could improve the chances that participants will be able to connect with others in their communities, though.
That, in turn, could make gaming across Arizona safer. That's a win regardless of whether Arizonans are ever able to make use of offers like a FanDuel Casino promo code bonus or not.
Government investment in mental healthcare has a strong positive correlation with people experiencing a high quality of care in that regard. Arizona is taking a step toward improving those outcomes.
