Evers proclaims March ‘Problem Gambling Awareness Month’
For the Tomahawk Leader
WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling (WCPG), in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recently dedicated March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).
The WCPG received a Proclamation for Problem Gambling Awareness Month from Governor Evers.
The 2022 campaign theme is “Awareness + Action.”
WCPG said groups across America hold conferences, air Public Service Announcements, provide counselor trainings, host health screening days, run social media campaigns and engage in other activities to increase 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,” WCPG stated in a release. “Approximately 2 million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet criteria for severe problem gambling. Another 4-6 million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling.”
“Across Wisconsin this March during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling is committing to making sure the public understand what the signs of problem gambling are, and most importantly, the resources that are available to get help,” said Rose Blozinski, WCPG’s Executive Director.
The hashtag for the campaign this year is #PGAM2022, which participants are encouraged to use on the various social media platforms.
“PGAM is designed to help raise awareness of the prevention, treatment and recovery services available for those adversely affected by gambling,” WCPG said. “This grassroots campaign brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including public health organizations, treatment providers, advocacy groups and gambling operators. They work collaboratively to let people know that hope and help exist.”
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-426-2535, Text at 1-850-888-4673 or Live Chat through the WCPG website at www.wi-problemgamblers.org.