March Is Problem Gambling Awareness Month: Why It Matters in New York
Every March, communities across the New York observe Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). This month focuses on raising awareness about problem gambling, sharing resources, and encouraging people to seek help. PGAM has special meaning here in New York, where gambling opportunities continue to grow.
Struggling with Gambling Harms
New York has seen major changes in recent years. With casinos, sports betting, mobile betting apps, and lottery games widely available, gambling is now easier to access than ever before. For some, gambling becomes a serious problem, which can be harmful to the individual gambling and the people around them. Gambling harms happen when a person cannot control their gambling, even when it causes harm to their finances, relationships, work, or mental health.
In a busy and fast-paced state like New York, the risks can be high. Online sports betting allows people to place bets from their phones at any time of day. This convenience can make it harder for someone who is struggling to stop. Financial stress, debt, anxiety, and depression can quickly follow. Families may feel the impact through unpaid bills, broken trust, and emotional strain.
Solution Focused
Problem Gambling Awareness Month helps shine a light on these issues. One major goal of PGAM is to educate the public about the warning signs of gambling harms. These signs can include lying about gambling, chasing losses, borrowing money to gamble, or feeling restless and irritable when trying to stop. By learning these signs, friends, family members, and coworkers can recognize signs of someone who may need support.
Another important goal is to reduce stigma. Many people feel ashamed about their increasing gambling harms. They may worry about being judged or misunderstood. PGAM encourages open and honest conversations so that people feel safe asking for help. When communities respond with care instead of criticism, recovery becomes more possible.
Celebration Through Activity
Each year, PGAM includes activities like community events, social media campaigns, and Gambling Disorder Screening Day. These efforts help raise awareness of the warning signs of gambling harms and build community-wide support for those negatively impacted.
Problem Gambling Awareness Month reminds us that strong communities create stronger futures. In New York, where gambling access is expanding, awareness is more important than ever. By learning the facts, supporting those who struggle, and sharing information about available resources, we can reduce harm and help people find hope and recovery.
Community 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.
Learn more about gambling harms. Visit the NYCPG Training Center to view upcoming trainings as well as a list of self-paced trainings available to all.
If you live in New York, take time this March to learn, talk, and share. Awareness can make a real difference.