Choices Treatment Center (www.choicestreatmentcenter.net) and the Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling, in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). PGAM is dedicated to increasing public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services.
Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Approximately two million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet the criteria for severe problem gambling. Another four to six million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling.
Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a crucial opportunity to engage Nebraska communities in a dialogue about the impact of gambling-related issues on individuals and their loved ones. This annual observance provides an essential platform for organizations across the country to highlight the availability of support services for those affected.
During March, Choices Treatment Center staff has planned a series of impactful events and initiatives aimed at educating the public and fostering conversations about problem gambling. These events will include school-sponsored activities at several local colleges and universities, problem gambling screening events throughout eastern and central Nebraska and presentations on problem gambling prevention and education that are available to the public. Proclamations acknowledging PGAM will be signed by city leaders in communities throughout the state, as well as a statewide proclamation signed by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen.
“Problem Gambling Awareness Month promotes essential awareness for individuals affected by problem gambling as well as their loved ones,” said Deb Hammond, Choices Treatment Center Director. “Choices stands behind initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility to prevention, treatment and recovery services. Assistance for problem gambling remains readily available in Nebraska, not only during March but throughout the entire year, thanks to the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program and certified disordered gambling counselors throughout the state.”
Choices Treatment Center also invites local media outlets to engage in this important conversation and help spread the word about the resources available for those dealing with problem gambling.
For more information about problem gambling and how to increase awareness of problem gambling, visit www.ncpgambling.org/FAQs, https://problemgambling.nebraska.gov and choicestreatmentcenter.net.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7/365 – it is free and confidential. Nebraskans can also call 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837) 24/7/365 to speak to a Nebraska-based treatment professional and learn more about free and confidential services available in the state.
Choices Treatment Center is an outpatient treatment and recovery facility committed to helping individuals overcome problems related to gambling, substance abuse and mental health. Visit www.choicestreatmentcenter.net for more information.