The month of March has a special significance for the gambling industry, because it signals the beginning of Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Experts also say the problem of gambling addiction is increasing, and the National Council on Problem Gambling says that according to its estimates, around 2.5 million people in the United States suffer from a severe gambling problem. The theme for this year's gambling awareness month is 'Seeking Understanding.'

March is the beginning of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, which is an annual initiative led by the National Council on Problem Gambling to shed light on the growing issue of gambling addiction in the United States. As legalized gambling continues to expand nationwide, experts warn that problem gambling is on the rise, affecting millions of Americans.

Raising awareness during a high-stakes month

The NCPG, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit organization, has been dedicated to minimizing the social and economic costs linked to gambling addiction since its founding. Unlike advocacy groups that take a stance on gambling legalization, the NCPG remains neutral, focusing solely on supporting individuals and families affected by problem gambling.

March is a particularly crucial time for awareness efforts, as the annual NCAA basketball tournament, March Madness, draws significant betting activity. In 2024, nearly $3 billion in wagers were placed on the event. Since 2002, the NCPG has used March to highlight problem gambling as a public health concern and to encourage early intervention and treatment.

The theme for the 2025 observance is 'Seeking Understanding,' emphasizing the need to remove stigma, improve public knowledge, and foster empathy for those struggling with gambling addiction. Throughout the month, various events and initiatives will aim to educate the public on recognizing gambling disorders and seeking help.

The NCPG is also currently undergoing a leadership transition following the resignation of its longtime executive director, Keith Whyte, in January. Nancy Green has stepped in as interim director while the organization continues its national search for a permanent successor. The transition comes at a pivotal time as the organization expands its outreach and advocacy efforts.

The rising tide of problem gambling

With casinos operating in most states and sports betting legal in more states, gambling accessibility has never been higher. While state governments benefit from increased tax revenue, responsible gaming advocates warn of the growing societal costs associated with gambling addiction.

The NCPG says that around 2.5 million American adults suffer from severe gambling problems, while an additional five - eight million face mild to moderate gambling-related struggles. However, the true numbers may be even higher, as many individuals hide their addiction due to shame or lack of awareness.

"Problem gambling is often called a 'hidden addiction,' and with an estimated nine million Americans affected, the need for awareness and support has never been greater," said the NCPG's communications director, Cait Huble. "By fostering a deeper understanding of the issue, we can encourage empathy, reduce barriers to treatment, and provide support to those affected by gambling-related harm."

To date, eight states - Connecticut, Arizona, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Colorado, Kansas, and Ohio - have issued official proclamations that designate this month as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Screening for gambling addiction

One of the primary goals of the 2025 campaign is to encourage healthcare providers to integrate gambling addiction screenings into routine medical assessments. Partnering with the Division on Addiction at Cambridge Health Alliance and Harvard Medical Hospital, the NCPG has developed a simple three-question screening tool:

  • In the past 12 months, have you become anxious, restless, or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling?
  • In the past 12 months, have you ever tried to keep your friends or family from knowing how much you gambled?
  • In the past 12 months, have you experienced financial problems due to gambling that required assistance from friends, family, or welfare?

According to the NCPG, answering 'yes' to any of these questions indicates a risk for developing a gambling problem. By promoting early screening, the organization aims to help individuals recognize the signs of addiction before severe consequences arise.

Seeking solutions and support

As Problem Gambling Awareness Month unfolds, advocates urge individuals, families, and communities to engage in open conversations about gambling-related harm. The NCPG continues to expand its resources, including helplines, counseling services, and educational programs, to support those in need. For anyone struggling with gambling addiction, the NCPG provides confidential support through the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), ensuring help is available 24/7.

With problem gambling rates climbing alongside the expansion of legal betting, this year's awareness campaign serves as a crucial reminder that gambling addiction is a serious mental health issue that requires understanding, intervention, and accessible treatment solutions.