March is one of the most exciting times on the sports calendar, headlined by the NCAA Basketball Tournament kicking off this week. But this month is also Problem Gambling Awareness Month, an important annual campaign that focuses on increasing awareness about gambling addiction, while promoting prevention, treatment and recovery services.
The theme of PGAM this year, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” highlights the importance of a community-driven approach to gambling addiction awareness and support. Through collective efforts nationally and locally, we can help replace silence with support, and isolation with connection. Every day, gambling addiction treatment counselors at Birches Health witness the shame and stigma often present in those impacted by problem gambling, so breaking down those emotional blockers is a key aim.
Pickswise is proud to be a champion of Responsible Gaming, dedicating a section of our site to resources and content around safer gambling. In addition, our partner Birches Health has shared some common signs of problem gambling that all should be aware of, so you can keep an eye out for them in yourselves, family members and friends.
Signs of Problem Gambling
- Chasing losses: Betting more to try to win back losses is a concerning sign often seen by Birches specialists in individuals who are unable to maintain healthy engagement with gambling.
- Cannot stop or cut back: Despite honest attempts, some are unable to stop or reduce their gambling. Restlessness and irritability can also arise when trying to do so.
- Negative effects on other parts of life: Impacts on important responsibilities in other areas of everyday life such as work, school, family or social commitments.
- Increased wager amounts: Some will begin to increase the amount of money they are risking because tolerance has built up, and a higher level of risk is needed to reach the same level of excitement previously experienced with lower amounts.
- Borrowing money: People may ask for money from others (often family members or friends) to either fund their betting or pay off gambling-related debts.
- Preoccupation with gambling: Constantly thinking or talking about betting can be an indicator that it has become a compulsive, unhealthy habit that needs to be addressed with the help of a professional.
- Betting as an escape: Using gambling as a distraction from problems or negative feelings is a common sign in those who are struggling in other areas of life.
- Hiding or lying about gambling: Feeling a need to lie about or hide your betting from others, which can often be due to shame, guilt or embarrassment.
Treatments available for Problem Gambling
If you or someone you know may be exhibiting any of the signs above, you can connect confidentially with Birches Health by visiting BirchesHealth.com or emailing help@bircheshealth.com.
Not sure if you may have a problem? Take a quick quiz to evaluate your betting behaviors. Identifying a gambling problem early and taking action right away is critical in recovery, so reach out to Birches Health today for specialized support.
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