Pennsylvania Kicks Off National Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Encouraging Awareness and Treatment

At the official kickoff event, Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Secretary of the DDAP, emphasized the importance of education in preventing gambling addiction.

“I encourage all Pennsylvanians to learn about the signs of problem gambling and to use that knowledge to help spread the message that treatment and resources are available. Knowledge is power, especially in terms of prevention,” Davis-Jones said. “With the right treatment and supports for problem gambling, recovery is not only possible, but also probable. Understanding that treatment and resources are available to help is often the first step on the road to recovery.”

Pennsylvania provides numerous support systems for individuals facing gambling addiction, including the Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, which operates 24/7, along with a live chat service through CCGP.

Josh Ercole, Executive Director of CCGP, reinforced the need for awareness. “While most people won’t experience problems with gambling, some will. Being aware of possible warning signs and knowing where to turn for assistance in Pennsylvania is vital.”

Recognizing the Signs of Problem Gambling

Even legal gambling can become problematic when individuals lose control of their habits. Experts at the event identified key warning signs, including:

• Strained relationships due to gambling behavior
• Borrowing money to cover gambling losses
• Gambling to feel a high or escape other problems
• Missing work, school, or important obligations to gamble
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about losses
• Feeling out of control but being unable to stop

David Yeager, a Pennsylvania veteran and advocate in long-term recovery from problem gambling, shared his personal experience at the press conference. He spoke about the severe financial and emotional toll of gambling addiction and his mission to educate fellow veterans and military service members about the risks.

“While not all of us are impacted by problem gambling, those of us who are often don’t realize it’s a treatable addiction until severe damage is done,” Yeager said. “Much more education and awareness are needed to help those struggling realize there’s help available.”

Pennsylvania Lottery and PGCB’s Commitment to Responsible Gambling

The Pennsylvania Lottery has been a strong advocate for responsible gambling, helping fund 1-800-GAMBLER and other prevention programs. Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko emphasized the importance of supporting responsible play.

“Our mission is to generate funds for older Pennsylvanians in a socially responsible way while ensuring players across the Commonwealth have the tools and resources they need to engage in healthy lottery play,” Svitko said.

The PGCB’s Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling also plays a crucial role in prevention and recovery efforts. Director Elizabeth Lanza stressed the need for making information accessible.

“During PGAM, it is vital that we share information about the resources available to all Pennsylvanians who find that gambling is causing a negative impact on their lives. Online prevention tools, responsible gaming initiatives, in-person and telehealth treatment, and self-exclusion programs are resources that can help individuals with gambling disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery,” Lanza said.

Study Highlights Online Gambling Risks

Penn State University, in collaboration with DDAP and PGCB, released its 2024 annual report on online gambling behavior in Pennsylvania. The study found that:

• Nearly two-thirds of adult Pennsylvanians participated in some form of online gambling last year
• Sports betting was the most popular form of online gaming
• People who engaged in both online and in-person gambling were at the highest risk for developing a gambling problem

These findings further emphasize the need for enhanced education, responsible gaming tools, and access to treatment resources.