Problem Gambling Awareness Month 2025: Understanding a Misunderstood Mental Health Crisis
Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) begins March 1st, 2025, coinciding with the NCAA basketball tournament to maximize impact during a period of increased gambling activity. This year's theme, "Seeking Understanding," aims to address problem gambling as a serious mental health condition.
The initiative unites public health organizations, advocacy groups, sports leagues, and gambling operators to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and improve access to support resources.
Key Strategies for #PGAM2025:
- Focus on Facts
- Use research-backed statistics
- Avoid sensationalism
- Present clear, verified information
- Share Personal Stories
- Highlight real experiences
- Build empathy through narrative
- Connect data with human impact
- Educational Approach
- Answer questions patiently
- Address misconceptions
- Use inclusive, non-stigmatizing language
- Build Compassion
- Use person-first language
- Challenge harmful stereotypes
- Emphasize the human aspect of addiction
- Promote Available Resources
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Text support: 800GAM
- Online chat: www.1800gamblerchat.org
The initiative builds on last year's "Every Story Matters" campaign, focusing on understanding through education and open dialogue. Support services are available 24/7, free and confidential, for individuals and families affected by problem gambling.
Prevention and awareness efforts extend beyond March, creating year-round support for those impacted by problem gambling. Through collective action and understanding, we can better address this often-misunderstood mental health condition and ensure those affected receive the support they need.
Remember: Professional help is available 24/7 through the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), offering hope and support without stigma or shame.
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