March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month
The Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health, in partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). This year’s theme, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” emphasizes the importance of a community-driven approach to problem gambling awareness and support. The annual campaign aims to increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services, as well as encourage healthcare providers to screen for problem gambling and connect individuals to appropriate support.
Problem gambling, defined as gambling behaviors that disrupt or damage personal, family, or professional lives, affects millions of Americans. In the U.S. 2.5 million adults (1%) are estimated to meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem in a given year. Another 5–8 million (2–3%) are considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems. Additionally, in the past year, approximately 20 million American adults reported experiencing at least one indicator of problematic gambling behavior.
“VPGH is a source of hope for Virginians who want to transform their lives from problem gambling,” said Jennifer Davis-Walton, Director of Gambling Services. “Our network of providers are trained to support people dealing with this often-hidden addiction and have a deep understanding of its impact on individuals’ relationships and well-being. And we’re committed to investing in research to improve outcomes for support seekers.”
A Community-Driven Approach to Awareness and Support
Throughout March, VPGH will lead efforts focused on increasing public understanding of problem gambling and ensuring individuals are aware of the available prevention, education, treatment, and recovery services in their community. Activities will include:
- March 10: Gambling Disorder Screening Day – Use the VPGH screener to help decide whether to seek formal evaluation of gambling behavior
- March 25: 3rd Annual Problem Gambling Prevention Conference – Register for this day of learning and support in Abingdon, Virginia
- March 27: Virginia Symposium on Problem Gambling – Register for this virtual event
- Visit VPGH website for more information about upcoming events
- Social media awareness campaign – Follow VPGH on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for information on problem gambling and available support resources
These efforts reflect a simple truth: when community comes together — friends, families, educators, healthcare providers, local partners, and policymakers — silence is replaced with support, and isolation is replaced with connection. To learn more about problem gambling, please visit the VPGH website.
VPGH encourages local media, partners, and residents to join the effort by sharing resources, uplifting stories of those in recovery, and helping connect people to available support.
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