National Problem Gambling Awareness Month – March, 2015
The National Council on Problem Gambling announces March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, with the message
“Problem Gambling: Have the Conversation.”
Sometimes it can be difficult to ask someone about their gambling habits. Perhaps a loved on seems preoccupied with sports wagering or you’re concerned about the amount of time they spend on line or in a casino. That niggling feeling comes up that “something’s just not right.” Bill collectors are calling, money is missing, too much time is spent away from home…these are possible signs of a problem. And often, it can be uncomfortable to “Have the conversation” about gambling habits.
Many people can gambling “recreationally”, and for them it is a harmless entertainment like going to a movie, a sporting event or a concert. But for those who can’t “gamble normally”, gambling addiction can be a devastating mental health disorder; destroying lives and harming families. Anyone is subject to become addicted to gambling. Gambling addiction crosses all socio-economic levels. Experts agree that between 3 and 6% of the US population is impacted by some degree of problem gambling. Gambling Disorder is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as an Addiction which is treatable IF it is recognized and treatment is sought.
It starts with a CONVERSATION.
For more information and many helpful tools to support National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, go to npgam.org. For Immediate Help with a gambling problem call the National Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.