JACKSON, Wyo. — The Teton County Health Department in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
Problem gambling is often referred to as a “hidden addiction,” yet an estimated 9 million American adults suffer from a gambling problem. Problem gambling (sometimes referred to as “gambling addiction” or “gambling disorder”) is gambling behavior that is damaging to a person and their family, often disrupting their daily life and career. Anyone who gambles can be at-risk for developing a gambling problem. A gambling disorder is a recognized mental health diagnosis.
Some warning signs of a gambling problem include: thinking about gambling all the time, feeling the need to wager more money, often going back to try and win your money back, feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down, covering up/lying about gambling behaviors and feeling the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the loss of a lot of money.
If you choose to gamble or bet online, here are some tips to “Play it Safe”:
- Make a plan
- Set a timer
- Take a break
Remember, you are not alone. If gambling is affecting your life, help is available and it works. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or text 800GAM. Help is available 24/7/365 – it’s free and confidential.
Learn more at: https://www.ncpgambling.org/ncpg.
