For Immediate Release – February 22, 2024
March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Charleston, Illinois (2/22/24)– Hour House, in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognizes 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 2 million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet the criteria for severe problem gambling. Another 4-6 million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling.
Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a crucial opportunity to engage the community 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, Hour House has planned a series of impactful events and initiatives aimed at educating the public and fostering conversations about problem gambling. These events will include a free gambling screening day on March 12, 2024 from 9am-3pm located at 513 N. 13th Street Mattoon, Illinois. We will provide information regarding gambling disorders and offer a free screening to assist individuals identify a need for services.
“Problem Gambling Awareness Month promotes essential awareness for individuals affected by problem gambling, as well as their loved ones,” said Melissa Parker, Gambling Coordinator. “Hour House stands behind initiatives aimed at enhancing accessibility to prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Assistance for problem gambling remains readily available, not only during March but throughout the entire year.”
Hour House 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 http://www.ncpgambling.org/FAQs or http://hourhouserecovery.org.
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.
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