Pennsylvania Groups Unite for Gambling Addiction Awareness
In Short
In the lead up to the National Month of Awareness for Problem Gambling, several organizations in Pennsylvania have joined forces to raise awareness about gambling addiction. Those involved include the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), the Pennsylvania Lottery, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania (CCGP), the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), and a person in long-term recovery.
Growing Accessibility of Gambling
Elizabeth Lanza, Director of Compulsive and Problem Gambling at the PGCB, emphasized the increasing accessibility of gambling due to the diversity of gaming options. She presented the work of the PGCB, which advocates for responsible gaming and provides people with round-the-clock access to voluntary self-exclusion programs.
Every Story Counts
The theme for this year’s National Month of Awareness for Problem Gambling is “Every Story Counts”. The focus is on educating the public about treatment and recovery services, and encouraging health service providers to look for problem gambling during the treatment of clients.
Knowledge is Power
Kelly Primus, Deputy Secretary of the DDAP, stressed the importance of providing resources and raising awareness. She emphasized that knowledge is power and urged Pennsylvanians to familiarize themselves with the signs of problem gambling. Josh Ercole, Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, underscored the importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help when needed.
Our Assessment
This collaboration of various organizations in Pennsylvania is a crucial step in heightening awareness of problem gambling and improving access to support services. It is important that such initiatives continue to be promoted and supported in order to minimize the negative impacts of gambling and to assist those in need of help.
Sources: Ricky Grant, BetUS, Iowa Lawmakers, Dutch Gambling Authority, Slotegrator, Maryland Online Gambling Legalization Debate, Hölle Games, GR8 Tech, Mohegan, Hacksaw Gaming.
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