Family and Problem Gambling
Summer is here! July is a great month to focus on family. For many of us, summer means outdoor activities like hiking and swimming at the beach or mowing the lawn and planting a garden. We hope that problems due to gambling don’t need to be a focus for the summer, but, if so, there is help and hope.
What Is Problem Gambling?
We identify problem gambling as any time gambling causes problems in someone’s life. Many people think of financial difficulties, but other gambling harms can include damaged relationships, problems at work, and a loss of control.
Gambling activities such as spending time at a casino, purchasing scratch off tickets, playing poker, placing bets on sports, and even 50-50 raffles can become problematic for some. We can work together to prevent youth from participating in these potentially addicting gambling activities.
Family, Culture and Help
Every family is different and may require different support. We recognize that each family’s culture, ethnic background, race, and citizenship status are unique. We focus on care and concern, which means we take into account each family’s unique needs.
Although all families are not the same, and there are many cultural differences, there are steps we can all take to keep our families safe from gambling harm.
What You Can Do
Learn about Problem Gambling
The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to take action. There are many resources available, which include printable pamphlets, training opportunities, and voluntary self-exclusion. By learning about gambling, you’ll feel more confident in your assessment of the potential problem and how to address it.
Screen for Problem Gambling
We have a free self-screener. By taking our self-screener, individuals can identify whether or not gambling is causing harms in their life. This is a great first step to identify a potential problem and, if needed, seek help.
Find Help and Support
In New York State, there are many different resources and support services available. You’ve already made the first step by finding this blog, and this website. The Problem Gambling Resource Centers exist to offer support and help for individuals and families seeking assistance. Additionally, our resource centers are part of a broad network of support services.
Seeking Support
If you find yourself struggling with gambling harm, or if you suspect someone you know is facing such challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help. For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on our NYProblemGamblingHELP.org HOME PAGE to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.