What is Problem Gambling Awareness Month?
Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), sponsored by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), is a time of national focus on the problem of addictive gambling. In Minnesota, PGAM is jointly sponsored by Northstar Alliance, the Minnesota Lottery and the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association.
The month of March was chosen as awareness month because it coincides with the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) basketball tournament commonly referred to as “March Madness,” one of the most widely bet upon events in the U.S. The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about the warning signs of problem gambling and the help that is available.
Have the Conversation
We hope to encourage people to have that difficult conversation about gambling with those closest to them, including spouses, coworkers, children or friends. For suggestions on how to have these difficult but important conversations, visit Northstar Problem Gambling.
What Can I Do If I Suspect That Someone May Have A Gambling Problem?
If you think someone you know may have a gambling problem, please call 1-800-333-HOPE or get gambling help. Help is available and it’s funded by the state of Minnesota.
How Can I Learn More?
Get the Facts on Problem Gambling.
Whether you’re a concerned individual, therapist or other interested party, you can learn more about problem gambling in Minnesota by subscribing to electronic and print newsletters. To add yourself to the list, please email Tiffany Roufs at tiffany@northstarpg.org.
