Let’s have a conversation that prioritizes prevention regarding about Problem Gambling.

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month and we are working to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the warning signs of problem gambling and to promote the availability of treatment and recovery resources.

Chances are, you have gambled or you know someone who gambles. So what is problem gambling and what does problem gambling prevention look like?

 

Problem gambling refers to gambling activity that goes beyond a leisure activity. Warning signs of a gambling addiction include:

Problem gambling prevention looks like the Cuyahoga Problem Gambling Coalition. The coalition is composed of diverse stakeholders, including treatment professionals, individuals in recovery and family members, committed to ending problem gambling in our community.

 

The coalition strives to increase problem gambling prevention by hosting an annual symposium, providing free problem gambling trainings to the community and working with at-risk populations to educate the community about the problem and how to get help.

 

Having a conversation about problem gambling may be the first step to helping someone achieve and maintain recovery.

 

Mental illness and addiction are treatable brain diseases. Problem gambling is a recognizable and treatable illness. Eliminating the stigma and judgement too often associated with mental illness and addiction will help individuals, family members, and our community sustain a healthier and happier life.