March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, in partnership with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), Connecticut Lottery Corporation, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mohegan Sun, Sportech, and WONDR NATION is pleased to announce that March has been officially recognized by Governor Lamont as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).

This year’s theme, “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. The campaign seeks to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers to treatment, and provide support for individuals and families impacted by gambling-related harm.

"Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a crucial time to highlight the risks of gambling-related harm and ensure that individuals and families know help is available. At the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, we are committed to providing support, education, and resources to those affected. If you or someone you know is struggling, our 24/7 Problem Gambling Helpline is here to offer confidential assistance at 1-888-789-7777. We also encourage everyone to visit www.responsibleplayct.org for valuable safer play strategies and responsible gambling tools. Help is always available, and recovery is possible." – Diana Goode, Executive Director, Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling

Groups across Connecticut will come together to hold conferences, air Public Service Announcements, provide counselor training, 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.

“At Foxwoods, our commitment to the well-being of our guests goes hand-in-hand with our dedication to further the responsible gaming narrative,” said Jason Guyot, CEO and President, Foxwoods Resort Casino. “Through collaborations with partners like the Connecticut Council on Problem Gaming, we aim to drive necessary conversations and provide vital resources during Problem Gambling Awareness Month and throughout the year. Together as a community, we can continue to develop a safer gaming environment for all.”

PGAM is designed to coincide each year with March Madness, during which Americans are expected to wager over $3 billion. For many adults, gambling can be a fun and entertaining experience, but there are risks involved. Sports bettors are at particularly high risk for developing a gambling problem according to a 2023 National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences.

“The Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Sun deeply value the relationship we have with CCPG and appreciate greatly the work and dedication they put forth in supporting responsible gaming across Connecticut,” –said Ray Pineault, CEO of Mohegan. “With the month of March serving as Problem Gambling Awareness Month, it allows for the awareness, discussion, and collective work on this important issue to be elevated even further. Mohegan Sun has also recently updated our information, tips and resources for Responsible Gaming, with details available via mohegansun.com/playing/responsible-gaming.html. Our iGaming partners, FanDuel, also have valuable resources available via fanduel.com/responsible-play/about.

Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behavior patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family, or vocational pursuits. Approximately 1% of US adults are estimated to meet the criteria for severe gambling problems each year. While 2-3% would be considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems. Currently Connecticut has 3,565,000 citizens. That means that over 100,000 citizens and over 275,000 family members are impacted by gambling related harm every day.

“We are proud to partner with our fellow stakeholders in Connecticut to ensure the safety of players. By helping to raise awareness of the issue of problem gambling and promoting education around available services for help, we can ensure that players have the tools and resources to make informed decisions,” said Frank Suarez, President and CEO of the Connecticut Lottery. “It's our responsibility to foster a gaming environment that offers support to those who may have gambling problems, while continuing to provide entertainment in a safe and enjoyable way for everyone."

Luckily, CT has resources available for people adversely affected by gambling and their families.

“At WONDR NATION, we recognize that problem gambling is a complex issue that affects individuals and families on a deeply personal level. We’re committed to promoting responsible gaming and proud to support initiatives like Problem Gambling Awareness Month. By doing so, we aim to spark vital conversations and highlight the importance of safe and healthy practices. We are dedicated to ensuring gambling remains a positive experience for all,” said Anika Howard, President & CEO, WONDR NATION.

If you or someone you know is looking for resources and support for problems relating to gambling, call, or chat with our 24/7 confidential Problem Gambling Helpline at 1(888) 789-7777 or visit www.ccpg.org. For more information, visit: https://ccpg.org/resources.

“Responsible gambling initiatives are essential, especially as the industry continues to expand. Strengthening partnerships with organizations like the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling ensures that players have access to resources, education, and support at our locations throughout Connecticut,” said Michael Burris, Sports Betting Manager, Sportech Venues Inc.

About the CCPG:

The Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) does not advocate for or against gambling but is committed to working with all stakeholders to help individuals and families impacted by gambling related harm.

CCPG provides Connecticut’s only 24-hour Problem Gambling Helpline, offering support via phone and live online chat. CCPG also implements prevention and education programs serving students, veterans, and other at-risk populations.