CHARLESTON — West Virginia’s Problem Gambling Help Network (WVPGHN), in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). PGAM is dedicated to increasing 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. According to the NCPG, approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults (1% of the population) are estimated to meet the criteria for severe problem gambling. Another 5-8 million (2-3%) meet the criteria for mild or moderate problem gambling. 

During March, WVPGHN will offer free online and in-person clinical training, including the Mountain State Summit on Gambling Addiction on March 19 in Charleston, which is open to the public. The summit will include screening the award-winning film “This Is Not Financial Advice” about cryptocurrency and how it relates to problem gambling behavior. There will also be a presentation on how social media and gambling are affecting youth. Registration information can be found at 1800GAMBLER.net.

There will also be a media campaign with the theme “Talk to Someone Who Understands.” Sheila Moran, Director of Communications for WVPGHN, says helpline callers often feel alone and embarrassed, and they feel great relief to know others have experienced similar issues and found recovery. She said, “Our helpline specialists have helped thousands of West Virginians. They can give them helpful resources and link them with others who have experienced gambling addiction. There is a real camaraderie among people in our state who have struggled with problem gambling.”

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit 1800gambler.net. Treatment options include:

• In-person or telehealth counseling

• Support groups

• Software that bans gambling sites

• Financial counseling

• Connection to others in recovery from gambling addiction

WVPGHN was established in 2000 to provide training, treatment, education, and awareness surrounding gambling addiction in West Virginia. They operate the 24/7 1-800-GAMBLER helpline in West Virginia, providing crisis counseling and professional treatment referrals.

The NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization in the U.S. that seeks to mitigate gambling-related harm. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame.