News

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling (Alliance), in partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). This year’s theme, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” emphasizes the importance of a community-driven approach to problem gambling awareness and support. 

The annual campaign aims to increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services, as well as encourage healthcare providers to screen for problem gambling and connect individuals to appropriate support.

Problem gambling, defined as gambling behaviors that disrupt or damage personal, family or professional lives, affects millions of Americans. In the United States, 2.5 million adults (1%) are estimated to meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem each year. Another 5–8 million (2–3%) are considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems. Additionally, in the past year, approximately 20 million American adults reported experiencing at least one indicator of problematic gambling behavior. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, help is available by calling Missouri based 1-888-BETSOFF (1-888-238-7633) or visiting www.888betsoff.org – it is free and confidential.

When the community comes together — friends, families, educators, healthcare providers, local partners, and policymakers — silence is replaced with support, and isolation is replaced with connection. To learn more about problem gambling, please visit NCPGambling.org/FAQs