Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM)
Credit: Massachusetts Gaming Commission
March is designated as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), an international grassroots event designed to increase awareness about gambling disorder and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.
During PGAM, organizations and supporters spread awareness through various activities, including public events, educational seminars, and media campaigns. The goal is to promote understanding of problem gambling and encourage those affected to seek help.
The observance of PGAM coincides with March Madness, a popular college basketball tournament that often involves increased gambling activity. This timing allows for targeted messaging about responsible gambling practices during a period of heightened risk.
What is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling, also known as gambling disorder, is a condition characterized by persistent and recurrent gambling behavior that leads to significant distress or impairment.
This condition affects individuals across various demographics and can have profound impacts on personal, social, and financial aspects of life.
Gambling disorder is recognized as a behavioral addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It shares similarities with other addictions, such as substance use disorders, in terms of its neurological effects and behavioral patterns.
Individuals with problem gambling may experience an overwhelming urge to gamble, even when faced with negative consequences.
This compulsive behavior can lead to financial ruin, strained relationships, and deteriorating mental health.
The Prevalence of Problem Gambling
The prevalence of problem gambling varies across different regions and populations. Studies suggest that approximately 1-3% of adults may experience gambling disorder at some point in their lives.
In the United States, the National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that 2 million adults meet the criteria for severe gambling problems, while another 4-6 million have mild to moderate gambling problems.
The rise of online gambling and sports betting has potentially increased accessibility and, consequently, the risk of developing gambling problems. This trend highlights the importance of ongoing research and awareness efforts.
Risk factors for problem gambling include genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Understanding the Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of problem gambling is crucial for early intervention and support.
Warning signs may include:
- Preoccupation with gambling thoughts and activities
- Increasing amounts of money wagered to achieve the desired excitement
- Unsuccessful attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
- Restlessness or irritability when attempting to reduce gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
Physical harms associated with problem gambling can include stress-related health issues, sleep disturbances, and neglect of personal care. These symptoms may be less obvious than the financial consequences but are equally important to address.
Gambling behavior that interferes with work, education, or personal relationships is a significant indicator of a potential problem. Individuals may lie about their gambling activities or rely on others to finance their habit.
Seeking Help and Support
For those struggling with gambling problems, seeking help is a crucial step towards recovery. The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) provides confidential help and resources 24/7 for individuals and their family members affected by problem gambling.
Support options include professional counseling, self-help groups like Gamblers Anonymous, and online resources. Many communities offer specialized treatment programs tailored to address gambling disorder and its associated challenges.
It's important to note that recovery is possible, and many individuals have successfully overcome gambling addiction with proper support and treatment. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention in gambling disorder can significantly improve outcomes and prevent the escalation of problems. Screening Day, which occurs on the second Tuesday of March during PGAM, plays a crucial role in this effort.
Gambling Disorder Screening Day encourages healthcare providers, community organizations, and other client-facing individuals to conduct gambling disorder screens. These brief assessments can help identify individuals at risk and guide them towards appropriate resources.
Screening Day normalizes conversations about gambling behavior and mental health, reducing stigma and encouraging open dialogue. This increased awareness can lead to better outcomes for those affected by problem gambling.
The Impact of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can have far-reaching effects on individuals, families, and communities. Financial consequences may include debt, bankruptcy, and loss of assets, leading to significant stress and instability.
Relationships often suffer as trust is eroded due to deception and financial strain. Family members may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and depression as they cope with the impacts of a loved one's gambling problem.
The effect on mental health is substantial, with problem gamblers experiencing higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Addressing these co-occurring issues is essential for comprehensive treatment and recovery.
Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma
PGAM plays a crucial role in raising awareness about problem gambling and reducing the associated stigma. By encouraging open conversations, the campaign helps to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding gambling addiction.
Education is key to reducing stigma. Providing accurate information about the nature of gambling disorder as a recognized mental health condition can foster empathy and understanding.
Media coverage during Gambling Awareness Month helps to reach a wider audience, disseminating information about risk factors, warning signs, and available resources. This increased visibility contributes to a more informed and supportive society.
Engaging Communities and Organizations
Community engagement is essential for effective problem gambling prevention and support. Local organizations, schools, and businesses can participate in PGAM by hosting events, distributing educational materials, and promoting screening initiatives.
The New York Council on Problem Gambling, for example, provides free educational materials and resources to support PGAM activities. Such collaborations between state councils and local entities enhance the reach and impact of awareness efforts.
Non-client-facing individuals can also contribute by sharing information within their networks and supporting awareness campaigns on social media platforms. This grassroots approach helps to spread the message more broadly.
Supporting Individuals and Families
Support for individuals with gambling problems extends beyond the affected person to include their family members and loved ones.
Family therapy and support groups can help address the complex dynamics that often arise in households affected by problem gambling.
Developing a support network is essential for long-term recovery. This may include family, friends, support group members, and mental health professionals who can provide ongoing encouragement and guidance.
The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care is a crucial aspect of recovery from problem gambling. This involves developing healthy coping mechanisms, managing stress, and engaging in activities that promote overall well-being.
Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can help individuals manage the physical and emotional challenges associated with recovery.
These lifestyle factors contribute to improved mood and resilience.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can also be effective tools for managing gambling urges and reducing stress. Many treatment programs incorporate these techniques into their approach.
Engaging in hobbies and interests that don't involve gambling can help individuals rediscover passions and build a fulfilling life beyond gambling. This process of rediscovery is an important part of long-term recovery.
PGAM FAQ
Everything You Need to Know about Problem Gambling
Alarming Gambling Addiction Statistics You Need to Know
Raising Awareness and Support: Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Meet Our Experts
Paruyr Shahbazyan
Paruyr Shahbazyan began his business career in 2000 as a private entrepreneur. Over thirteen years, he developed a deep understanding for business and leadership, laying a solid foundation for his professional journey.
In 2013, Paruyr stepped into the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating. This online mass media platform, which he led until 2020, focused on providing in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting, earning a reputation for its quality content.
Continuing his innovative approach in 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This venture showcases his dedication to integrating advanced technology in the evolving landscape of sports betting. Through these diverse experiences, Paruyr has continuously influenced and shaped the betting industry, driving new trends and setting high standards.
| Experience | Year |
| Engaged in private entrepreneurship | 2000-2013 |
| Founder and President at Bookmaker Rating, an online platform focused on sports and betting | 2013-2020 |
| Co-founder at Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol | 2022 |
"Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports."
- Paruyr Shahbazyan, Founder, RG
Principles and Ethics
Paruyr Shahbazyan's core beliefs lie in the power of informed decision-making and integrity in the betting industry. He understands that the foundation of successful betting is not just about odds and predictions, but also about the trust and reliability of the information provided. Paruyr advocates for a betting environment where transparency and knowledge are paramount, ensuring that bettors are well-equipped with accurate data and insights.
Strategic Vision
Paruyr's vision is to revolutionize the sports betting industry through the integration of technology. He sees the future of betting as a blend of traditional sports knowledge with innovative tech solutions, like decentralized protocols, to enhance user experience and fairness. His aim is to create platforms that are not only user-friendly but also uphold the highest standards of ethical betting, contributing to a more responsible and enjoyable betting culture.
Future Perspectives
Looking towards the future, Paruyr envisions a betting landscape that is more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally connected. He anticipates a significant shift towards more decentralized and transparent betting systems, driven by blockchain technology. Paruyr is committed to being at the forefront of this change, continuously exploring new possibilities and innovations that can redefine what it means to engage in sports betting in a digital world. His focus is on building systems that prioritize user empowerment, fairness, and the global growth of the sports betting community.
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol has over 20 years of experience in writing for diverse industries including sports, gambling, regulation, technology, and startups. As the Editor-in-Chief at RG.org, Sol brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, focusing on delivering transparent, evidence-based content grounded in thorough research. Sol's mission is to empower readers to enjoy gambling responsibly and make informed decisions, enhancing their overall experience through insightful and engaging content. Under Sol's leadership, RG.org prioritizes the highest standards of integrity and reliability, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and trustworthy. Sol's dedication to transparency and research-based writing helps create a responsible gambling environment where readers can truly benefit from the content. This commitment to excellence has positioned RG.org as a leading source of information in the gambling industry.
Experience:
- Over 20 years in writing and editing across multiple industries
- Former head of regional innovation at BMO Finanacial Group
- Senior Writer, Online Casino Reports
Cristina Varela Galan
Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project
“Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.
Nick Ashbourne
Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game back in 1998, and he's written about them professionally since 2014.
Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports, and his sports betting expertise has grown since its legalization in Ontario in 2022.
Between 2022 and 2023 he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets, and in 2024 he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the Responsible Gambling team.
Sergey Demidov
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
Anna Kravtcova
Ph.D. in organizational psychology, an internationally certified psychologist (EuroPsy 2022, Cognitive behavioural therapy of mindfulness 2020, International Society for Emotional Intelligence 2017, Russian Psychological society 2014, American Psychological Association(Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychologist) 2011), speaker of many international conferences (USA, Brazil, Portugal, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.). TEDx speaker.
Mark Medina
Mark Medina is a longtime NBA reporter that includes stints as a Lakers blogger with The Los Angeles Times (2010-12), Lakers beat writer with the Los Angeles Daily News (2012-17), Warriors beat writer with Bay Area News Group (2017-19) as well as an NBA reporter/columnist for USA Today (2019-21) and NBA.com (2021-23). Medina is also an NBA insider with Fox Sports Radio and frequent contributor to CBSLA's SportsCentralLA with Jim Hill and with Spectrum Sportsnet.
Daria Tuboltseva
Daria went to St. Petersburg State University and earned a bachelor of international journalism. Working as a sports journalist from 2014, from 2016 as a hockey journalist. Covered 5 World Championships, 2022 Winter Olympics, 2020 World Juniors, 6 Gagarin Cup Finals.
Owner of a telegram channel Coolest Game on Earth.
Integrative nutritionist specializing on sports nutritionology.
Paul M. Banks
Paul M. Banks is a professional Content Creator whose career has seen bylines in numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, FOX Sports and Sports Illustrated.
Banks has made scores of guest appearances on live radio and television, featuring regularly on NTD News, WGN-TV, CCTV, ESPN Radio, the History Channel, SiriusXM and CBS Sports Radio.
He is the Founding Editor of The Sports Bank.net, which has been featured and linked in hundreds of leading media outlets all across the world.
He has also authored two books, one of which, "No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in Sports Media," became an assigned textbook in journalism courses at State University New York-Oneonta.
Marco D'Amico
Marco D'Amico is a beat reporter covering the Montreal Canadiens and the NHL Draft, while also being a recurring guest on TSN690 and BPM Sports. His work primarily on NHL CBA breakdowns and prospect analysis, all while covering the Montreal Canadiens on a day-to-day basis.
Crissy Froyd
Crissy Froyd is a sports reporter of over 10 years who specializes in quarterback analysis at the high school, college and NFL level. She was mentored by Mike Leach and learned the Air Raid offense and quarterback evaluation largely under the legendary head coach. Froyd has appeared in and worked with multiple publications, including USA TODAY SMG, Sports Illustrated, NBC Sports and Saturday Down South. She also covers canine journalism for Showsight Magazine and resides in Wisconsin with her three dogs -- two German Shepherds named Faxon and Bo Nix, and one Siberian Husky named Stetson "Balto" Bennett.
Brendon R. Elliott
Brendon Elliott, a distinguished PGA Professional, is best known for his dedication to the growth and development of junior golf. With nearly three decades of experience, Elliott has been recognized multiple times as one of the best instructors, both regionally and nationally.
Elliott's crowning achievement was being named the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award Winner, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. He is the founder of Little Linksters, an award-winning youth golf academy and nonprofit that works with kids of all abilities to help them develop a passion for golf. His innovative teaching methods and love for the game have made significant impacts on students and the broader golfing community.
Additionally, Brendon, a Golf Writers Association of America member, has become a renowned freelance golf writer, further solidifying his position as a top professional in the industry.
Garrett Kerman
Garrett Kerman also goes by the name of The Fight Analyst. He is a writer and analyst who covers the world of combat sports. He's covered some of the biggest events in combat sports with interviews from some of the biggest names in the sport. Garrett has a vast knowledge of MMA, boxing, and even bare-knuckle fighting that he brings to the table in his content. Whether you're looking for exclusive content, fighter interviews, breaking news, or expert analysis Garrett Kerman has got you covered!
Simon Head
Simon is a sports journalist and MMA reporter with 25+ years' experience covering sports and 15+ years covering mixed martial arts as one of the UK's longest-tenured MMA journalists. He also has more than a decade of experience working in the betting and gaming industry.
He has provided coverage for a plethora of major sports outlets, including BBC Sport, USA Today, Daily Mirror and BT Sport, and has covered Olympic Games, World Cups, FA Cup Finals and UFC title fights during his career.
DJ Siddiqi
DJ Siddiqi is a sports reporter who focuses on football, basketball and pro wrestling. He has covered some of the biggest sporting events, including the NBA Finals and Wrestlemania and often interviews high-profile athletes on a weekly basis. Siddiqi has interviewed the likes of Dan Marino, Emmitt Smith, Shaquille O'Neal, Tony Hawk and Giannis Antetokounmpo. His previous experience includes working as a lead NBA writer at CBS Sports and 247 Sports in addition to working as a beat reporter covering the NFL and the Denver Broncos at Bleacher Report. Follow Siddiqi for exclusive one-on-one interviews and analysis on key topics in sports
Alex Kennedy
Alex Kennedy is an NBA reporter, editor and podcaster. He has covered the NBA for the last 19 years, writing for ESPN, HoopsHype, USA TODAY Sports, Bleacher Report, and Basketball News among others. As the Chief Content Officer at Basketball News, he built and managed the staff, which consisted of journalists and former NBA players. His Twitter account is featured in NBA 2K each year.
Mike Rosenberg
Mike made the decision to dive headfirst into the booming world of sports betting fresh out of college. Back in the day, when 1-800 pick lines and sports pagers were all the rage, he couldn't resist the allure, having grown up idolizing sports legends like Sweetness, MJ, and Slammin Sammy. Mike dedicated his early years to the industry, tirelessly analyzing games, writing articles with free picks, and selling his expertise on reputable handicapping sites. Unlike many others, Mike was known for his integrity and only released one Game of the Year per sport, per season. His hard work and unwavering commitment paid off, earning him a devoted following and propelling his career to new heights. Then came the explosion of Daily Fantasy Sports. Believe it or not, companies like DraftKings and FanDuel used to pay Mike's company to increase their brand exposure. Now, those same industry giants don't even bother responding to his emails. While Mike appreciates the convenience of being able to place legal bets in his own backyard, he can't help but feel disheartened by what has become of the industry. People are being led astray, falsely believing that a mere $5 wager on a 20-team same-game-parlay will be their ticket to financial security. If there’s one thing Mike learned from making book back in the day, it’s that parlays are a bookie’s best friend. A bankroll is the only leg you have to stand on in the battle with the books, and Mike’s here to offer up advice on how to protect it.
Nikhil Narain
Nikhil Narain is a die-hard cricket romantic, published author, and has worked for some of the leading digital websites and broadcasters in India and overseas. An alumnus of the London School of Economics, Nikhil's forte is using data and numbers creatively to weave interesting stories and revolutionize the way cricket statistics are generated and analyzed.
Erik Uebelacker
Erik Uebelacker is a legal reporter for Courthouse News Service, where he covers high-profile trials in New York City. In his spare time, he likes to write about people punching each other in the face.
James Murphy
With 24 years of experience (SiriusXM NHL Network Radio, ESPN Boston, NESN, NHL.com, etc.) covering the Bruins, the NHL, NCAA and junior hockey, and more, Jimmy Murphy’s hockey black book is filled with Hall of Famers, current players, coaches, management, scouts and a wide array of hockey media personalities that have lived in and around this great game. For 22 of his 24 years as a hockey and sports reporter, Murphy covered the Bruins on a daily basis, including their victorious 2011 Stanley Cup run and their runs to the 2013 and 2019 Finals. Murphy is currently a co-host, along with Pierre McGuire, on The Eye Test Podcast.
Jim Biringer
Having 10 years of experience (SiriusXM NHL Network Radio, Rod Pedersen Show, Raw Mike Richards Show, and more) covering the Devils, the NHL along with College Football, the NFL, and the tennis circuit Jim Biringer has wealth of sports knowledge. As one of Jim's hockey coaches put it he is a "student of the game." During his time as a sports reporter, Biringer has covered some of the biggest events including most recently the 2024 Stanley Cup Final along with several NHL Drafts. He is also the host of the Full Press Hockey Podcast and Final Word on Hockey plus Around Campus - The College Football Podcast.
