Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Problem Gambling Awareness Month, observed in March, raises awareness about problem gambling. The purpose of this awareness month is to educate the public about the warning signs of problem gambling. In addition, it serves to inform the public about the availability of help and hope, both locally and nationally. Problem Gambling Awareness Month also educates healthcare professionals. It is represented by the color blue. Wear a blue enamel awareness ribbon pin, blue fabric ribbon, or blue silicone awareness wristband bracelet to call attention to this important awareness month.

Problem Gambling Awareness Month informs the public that most people who gamble can do so safely, and without difficulty. However, gambling is not a risk-free activity. When gambling in excess, the onset of an addiction can result in serious to severe short and long-term consequences. In addition to affecting an individual’s home life, financial status, career, education, social relationships, and physical or emotional health, gambling problems also impact those closest to the gambler.

The problem gambling hotline is available for those who suffer from problem gambling, or their families.

Gambling Statistics and More About Problem Gambling Awareness Month

• As March Madness reaches a crescendo with an estimated $10 billion in bets placed on the NCAA basketball championship games, calls to the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) spike an average of 30% during the month.
• The campaign theme “Awareness + Action” is all about taking action and having conversations about problem gambling issues and directing people to the help they may need.
• Problem Gambling Awareness Month is designed to help raise awareness of the prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Groups conduct awareness initiatives to reach people who can make a difference in ensuring that problem gambling services are widely available and accessible.

Can Children or Teenagers Develop Gambling Problems?

Yes, research shows that a vast majority of kids have gambled before their 18th birthdays. In addition, children may be more likely to develop issues related to gambling than adults.

Tips

1. Bring it up before your child does.
You may worry that you’re putting ideas in your child’s head. However, the likelihood is that your kid is already forming attitudes to gambling. This is without your input. And, it is especially true if your child has more exposure and/or access to gambling through digital devices, social media and interaction with their friends.

2. Pick your moment.
Perhaps in the car on the way to school or sport practice. Or when a gambling ad comes on TV. The most important thing is to let your child know that they can talk to you about gambling at any time.

3. Be a good role model.
If your child is regularly exposed to you or family members gambling, it sends a message that gambling is a harmless, risk-free activity. You’ll also be much less likely to be taken seriously. As you know, children are good at noticing if what you say doesn’t match your behavior!

Lastly, Cover a Few Basics

• Talk about what you love about a sport. Make sure your child knows that a sport and gambling don’t have to go together.
• Help your child understand that gambling companies are in business to make money from customers. They also need to know that the chances of winning are limited.
• Discuss the things that can influence attitudes toward gambling. For instance, you can talk about the blurred line between gaming and gambling. Explain that technology has made it easier to gamble.
• Point out that gambling is risky and can cause harm. One example is not having spending money for other things your child may want.
• Manage access to your money. Are your credit or debit cards linked to accounts your children access, such as those for downloading music? Virtual gaming and gambling websites regularly offer purchased credits or rewards. It’s not always obvious that these purchases relate to real money.
• Enforce rules around internet use. Create a screen-time plan. Place devices in a shared or visible place in the home. Filter devices with safe internet searching settings. Or install software to block gambling sites.