March marks Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), coinciding with NCAA March Madness basketball tournament, when sports betting activity typically peaks. This timing is particularly relevant as sports betting has expanded dramatically across the United States.

Sports betting is now legal and operational in 20 states and Washington D.C., with 5 more states pending implementation and 17 others considering legislation. This represents a 500% increase since 2018, following the Supreme Court's Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association ruling.

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the National Association of Administrators of Disordered Gambling Services (NAADGS) collaborate to raise awareness about gambling addiction risks and available support services. This partnership, established 19 years ago, focuses on education and prevention during this high-risk period.

Key Resources for Problem Gambling:

• 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
• Online chat support: www.ncpgambling.org/chat
• Free and confidential assistance
• Professional treatment services
• Self-assessment tools

PGAM provides comprehensive resources for organizations and individuals, including:

• Social media toolkits in English and Spanish
• Educational materials and graphics
• Awareness campaign templates
• Event calendars and local initiatives
• Screening resources for gambling disorders

Signs of problem gambling may intensify during major sporting events like March Madness. Treatment is effective, and recovery is possible with proper support and intervention. The expansion of legal sports betting makes awareness and access to help services more critical than ever.

State administrators work closely with prevention and treatment providers to ensure support services are available to those affected by problem gambling. While gambling services receive no federal funding, state-level programs continue to develop and expand to meet growing needs.

If you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction, help is available 24/7 through confidential support services. Early intervention and professional assistance can prevent severe personal and financial consequences of problem gambling.

The campaign emphasizes that gambling addiction impacts not just individuals but entire families and communities. Through increased awareness and accessible support services, PGAM aims to reduce gambling-related harm and promote responsible gambling practices.

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