Lincoln residents offered help during Problem Gambling Awareness Month

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Millions are living with the burden of gambling addiction in the U.S., according to the Choices Treatment Center of Lincoln.

Outreach Coordinator Mike Sciandra says gambling is “just like any other addiction,” and with sports betting on the horizon, those in need have options.

“Currently in Nebraska it is legal but it’s not being offered yet at any of the casinos,” Sciandra said.

Online sports betting cost Americans millions during major sporting events like March Madness and NCAA basketball tournaments.

“That is a big concern of ours,” Sciandra said. “You can find online casinos right now that you can download on your phone, or on your computer. The part that is most problematic about that is the isolation and the ability to lie about it.”

Scaindra says the treatment center is neutral when it comes to legalized gambling but wants to offer resources to those who are struggling with addiction.

“We just want to make sure that no matter how you’re gambling, if you have a problem we want to make sure that people are aware of the resources that are available to them,” he said.

The Lincoln-based organization is offering free evaluation screenings on Tuesday to test those who feel that they may need help.