March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is using the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments to highlight the prevalence of gambling addictions. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) more than $8 billion is wagered annually on tournament games. According to a 2019 IDPH study, approximately 315,000 Iowans experienced at least one negative consequence related to gambling. Iowa Problem Gambling Services Program Director, Eric Pruess, says, “Iowans who have problems with their gambling come from many backgrounds. Problem gambling can affect people of every race, every religion, and all socioeconomic backgrounds. The one constant is that problem gabling is treatable and recovery is possible. The impacts of problem gambling can be addressed, helping individuals and families get their lives back on track.” Symptoms of problem gambling include thinking persistently about wagering, betting larger and larger amounts, trying to stop or lessen gambling without success, lying to family or friends about your betting habits or relying on others to assist with a financial problem caused by gambling. The IDPH program offers multiple resources designed to reduce harm caused by problem gambling such as outpatient counseling, recovery support services, financial guidance and more. To find help for you or a loved one, call 1-800-BETS-OFF or visit yourlifeiowa.org/gambling.
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