Why March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Published: March 7, 2022
Problem Gambling Awareness Month takes place every March and is a time of year dedicated to increasing public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services. The campaign consists of the National Council on Problem Gambling state affiliates, organizational and individual members, state health agencies, gaming companies, recovery groups, and many healthcare organizations.
Some individuals who hear about Problem Gambling Awareness Month ask why the month of March is chosen as the month to recognize it?
March is an ideal time of year to discuss responsible gambling with the kickoff of March Madness, the annual NCAA men’s basketball championship tournament. This time of year is popular for adults and children to gamble, and by discussing the risks of problem gambling, the message raises awareness to those who may not usually gamble or engage in casual betting during the games.
Sports betting continues to interest more individuals year after year, especially as more and more states look to legalize it. And according to a study from the National Council on Problem Gambling, from 2004 to 2018, participation in fantasy sports gambling more than quadrupled — from 14 million to 57 million.
This year’s theme is “Awareness Plus Action.” You can follow how organizations and individuals across the country are getting involved by searching for the hashtags #AwarenessPlusAction and #PGAM on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
If you would like to access additional information and to find customizable resources around problem gambling, please visit BeforeYouBet.org/community-toolkit.
Access the free, 24/7, confidential helpline if you or someone you love need it by calling 1-800-589-9966 or texting 4HOPE to 741741.