DraftKings to help Kindbridge provide treatment for problem gambling 28 March 2024

DraftKings, a popular sportsbook and gaming products provider has launched a collaboration with Kindbridge Behavioural Health aka Kindbridge. The purpose of the collaboration is to provide problem gamblers with access to therapy and treatment in all jurisdictions in which DraftKings operates.

“We appreciate the opportunity to deepen our collaboration with Kindbridge Behavioral Health and strengthen our commitment to providing important resources to those experiencing potential indications of problem gaming. We want everyone on our platform to engage in responsible play and we are committed to educating consumers on the multitude of resources offered. For those who recognize signs of problem gaming and decide to utilise our tools to self-exclude, they now have access to therapy and treatment free of cost through Kindbridge Behavioral Health,” said DraftKings Chief Compliance Officer Jennifer Aguiar.

The collaboration makes sense because DraftKings has access to problem gamblers and Kindbridge has the tools to assist since they are a pioneer mental health service provider.

Through the initial partnership, problem gamblers could access support options such as educational content, initial assessment calls and scheduling initial counselling.  

Where it started

This is not the first collaboration between the two companies. In 2023, they launched a pilot program in Colorado. The program's goal was to provide personalised support for problem gamblers.

Through the initial partnership, problem gamblers could access support options such as educational content, initial assessment calls and scheduling initial counselling.  

The new program

Due to the success of the pilot program, the two companies decided to continue their collaboration in a long-term relationship. The new relationship puts into place a new system where the DraftKings platform links self-excluded players with support options provided by Kindbridge.

“DraftKings’ integration of direct care into their platform, in collaboration with Kindbridge across 25 states, marks a significant step in enhancing player health. This effort underlines our commitment to combat problem gaming with personalised, accessible support. This collaboration sets a new industry benchmark for comprehensive care, ensuring swift and essential support is accessible to those in need,” said Daniel Umfleet, CEO of Kindbridge.

The system will launch on April 1 in 25 states where DraftKings operates and include Ontario.

The support options that problem gamblers can expect to access through the system include comprehensive mental health assessments, care providers and customised care plans. More so, the program does not only provide aid but includes insights and data on the effectiveness of the program. 
The insights will assess the program’s effectiveness and suggest upgrades for the program to better help problem gamblers seeking help from online gaming platforms.