The Importance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Published: March 9, 2026
March is a big month for sports fans, especially those who bet. With big events like the winter Olympics and Super Bowl last month, and March Madness heating up fast — there’s lots of competition to talk and bet about.
Gambling and sports betting was once an unspoken topic, but now it is openly discussed by many individuals. Though it may feel more normalized for various reasons, the bottom line is gambling and betting can cause long-term harms, including worsening mental health and high rates of job loss.
What is a gambling disorder?
A gambling disorder is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a serious condition causing individuals the uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite repercussions. Like drugs and alcohol, gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system, leading to continuous use. Here are a few of the symptoms an individual may experience:
- Constant preoccupation with gambling or betting
- Increasing amounts of money to feel the same thrill
- Inability to limit or stop participation
- Abnormal mood swings, feelings of restlessness, or irritability
For more warning signs, visit our website.
How Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) helps
An individual questioning their gambling may feel uncomfortable with seeking help and attempt to hide symptoms instead. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania encourages awareness of the behaviors and emotions that may indicate a problem, as a gambling disorder can be difficult to identify on physical signs alone.
PGAM is a national effort to increase awareness of the warning signs in impacted individuals — as well as to highlight available prevention, treatment, and recovery services. This year’s theme takes a community-driven approach with “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures” — to replace silence and isolation with support and positive connection. Check out the PGAM toolkit for resources to share with your community.
The role that screeners play
Individuals working in clinical settings are uniquely positioned to directly address those impacted by gambling, and their role can allow them to take part in Gambling Disorder Screening Day — a national event to raise awareness of the symptoms of gambling disorders, encourage professionals to use screening tools to identify potential gambling-related harm, and connect individuals with resources. To guide you through your own Screening Day event, check out this toolkit and list of best practices for screeners.
Below are some of the warning signs associated with disordered gambling clinicians and treatment providers may notice in screenings.
- Unexplained temper or irritability
- Underlying anxiety and/or depression
- Unable to pay bills or cover expenses
- Withdrawing from family and/or friends
- Unexplained absences, leading to job loss
If you or someone you know is impacted by gambling-related harms, check out this list of tools and resources:
- Enroll in a voluntary self-ban program for all Ohio casinos, racinos, and sports gaming through Time Out Ohio.
- Access professional support online at no cost through Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network.
- Join a support group, like Gamblers Anonymous.
Whether you plan to recognize the month by starting the conversation with a loved one, accessing new resources, or spreading awareness, be sure to follow @Pausebeforeyouplay_oh on Instagram, @PBYP_OH on X, and Pause Before You Play on Facebook. Tag us in posts during Problem Gambling Awareness Month with #PauseBeforeYouPlay!
And lastly, if you or someone you know needs help, never hesitate to call the free and confidential Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline. Trained and understanding specialists will answer 24/7. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 988.