Understanding Problem Gambling – Why Screening is So Important
Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) takes place every March. This is a time for us to learn more about gambling harms and how they affect people, families, and communities. One of the most important things we can do to help is to make sure people who have gambling problems are identified early—before things get worse. This is where screening comes in. Screening is a simple but powerful tool that helps identify people struggling with gambling harms to connect them to the support they need.
In honor of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), NYS OASAS, the NY Gaming Commission and the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) are encouraging everyone across New York State – individuals, agencies and communities alike – to come together to Seek Understanding to Reduce Gambling Harms.
What Is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling is when someone cannot stop gambling, even when it’s causing harm. People with a problem gambling may spend money they don’t have, lie to others, or ignore important things like family, work, or health. Gambling harms can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, or background.
In the United States, about 2.5 million adults struggle with a severe gambling problem, and an additional 5 to 8 million people have a moderate gambling issue (National Council on Problem Gambling). These numbers show just how big the issue is. This is why it’s important for us to pay attention and get people the help they need before their problems get worse.
It’s even more important when we talk about the connection between gambling and suicide. 1 in 5 individuals living with a gambling problem will attempt or die by suicide (Marionneau and Nikkinen, 2022). This is the highest of any addiction.
Why Is Screening So Important?
Screening for gambling harm is one of the best ways to help people. Screening is the process of having a trained clinician ask people a few questions about their gambling habits. If the answers show that someone may have a problem, they can be connected to the right resources and support.
Screening helps doctors, counselors, and other professionals recognize gambling harms early. It’s important because many people with gambling issues don’t realize how much their gambling is affecting their lives. And, if they do, they may be too ashamed to ask for help. When people are screened, they can get the help they need to stop gambling before the consequences get worse.
The Success of Screening
Screening works, and it can truly make a difference in people’s lives. Research shows that when people are screened for problem gambling, they are more likely to get treatment and make positive changes. It gives them a chance to talk about their problems with a professional who can guide them through the recovery process. Early screening leads to better outcomes because people can get help before they face serious financial, emotional, or legal consequences.
In fact, many people who struggle with gambling don’t know that help is available or feel embarrassed to seek it. By making screening a normal part of care, we reduce the stigma and make it easier for people to take the first step toward recovery.
How Screening Helps Families and Communities
When people are screened for problem gambling, it helps more than just the individual. Screening can help families and the community. Family members who are worried about their loved one’s gambling can feel more at ease knowing that screening can connect them with the right support. For communities, screening means that we’re paying attention to a serious issue and making it easier for people to get the help they need. It also helps us raise awareness, so more people know where to turn if they or someone they know is struggling with gambling harm.
How You Can Be Part of the Solution
You can help raise awareness about screening for problem gambling and encourage others to get screened. Here are some simple ways to get involved during Problem Gambling Awareness Month:
Spread the Word: Share information about gambling harms and the importance of screening with friends, family, and social media. The more people know about screening, the more likely they are to get help.
Encourage Screening: If you know someone who might be struggling with gambling, encourage them to talk to a professional and get screened. It’s a simple way to find out if they need help.
Attend Events: During PGAM, there are events like Screening Day on March 11th, where people can get screened for problem gambling. Attend these events or help organize one in your community to connect people with resources and support.
Learn More: If you work in healthcare, counseling, or community services, learn about how to screen for problem gambling. The more professionals know about screening, the more people can be helped.
Screening Makes a Difference
Problem Gambling Awareness Month is an opportunity to focus on a serious issue that affects millions of people. Screening is one of the most effective ways to identify problem gambling early and get people the help they need. It helps reduce the stigma around gambling issues, encourages people to seek help, and makes a real difference in their lives. By encouraging screening and raising awareness, we can create a better future for everyone—one where people get the support they need to live healthier, happier lives.
Support Services
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.