A gambling group encourages newspapers in the state to include a helpline.
Gambling is usually just harmless fun for most people, but just in case, Rose Gruber, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling , wants newspapers to print their 800 gambling helpline next to their sports betting lines.
"If you have a problem gambler, our hope is that they will see that number for help and reach out to get the help that they need."
Gruber acknowledges that the number might not get immediate response from a problem gambler, but it might make them aware that help is available should they decide to make use of it in the future.
"Maybe three months down the line or six months down the line they may say 'hey, I saw a number, I know there's some help.' I always like to look at it as planting a seed that hopefully when they need it they'll know that information is there for them."
While he's not opposed to the idea, Peter Fox, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Newspapers Association , points out that newspapers run stories all the time about gambling issues, including its dangers and lawfulness.
"I think that it would be up to the individual editors and publishers to make this decision. Of course there is quite a number of help groups that would want their numbers published. It's hard to include one and not include each and every single one."
There's always a reason to make a wager, especially now with the Milwaukee Brewers in the playoffs. Some folks bet in office pools, on the Internet, in the bars, or even the lottery. Gruber says if you or someone you love needs help, call 1-800-GAMBLE-5. They can hook you up with resources in your community and help to get you on the road to recovery.
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