March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) proudly announces the observance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) throughout March 2025. This year’s theme, “Seeking Understanding,” aims to increase awareness of problem gambling as a serious yet often misunderstood mental health condition. PGAM serves as a crucial platform for improving public understanding, removing barriers to care, and encouraging open conversations about the impact of gambling on individuals, families, and communities.

Problem gambling is a growing yet often overlooked public health concern that affects millions of Americans. Approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults suffer from severe gambling problems, with an additional 5 to 8 million facing mild to moderate gambling problems due to their gambling behavior. Problem gambling (sometimes referred to as “gambling addiction” or “gambling disorder”) is gambling behavior that is damaging to an individual, often disrupting daily life and career. These behaviors lead to significant social, financial, and emotional harm, creating an urgent need for support, education, and resources.

Cait Huble, NCPG’s Director of Communications, highlighted the importance of the 2025 campaign: “Problem gambling is often described as a ‘hidden addiction,’ and with an estimated 9 million Americans affected, the need for awareness and support has never been greater. 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.”

Throughout March, local and national organizations will host special events, offer educational workshops, and engage in local advocacy efforts to advance the two primary goals of PGAM: To increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services; and to encourage healthcare providers to screen clients for problem gambling. The observance brings together stakeholders, including public health organizations, advocacy groups, professional sports leagues, and gambling operators.

NCPG invites media outlets, community organizations, and individuals to join this critical conversation by sharing information about the availability of resources to help those affected by gambling addiction

For more information about Problem Gambling Awareness Month and a toolkit to help increase public awareness of problem gambling, visit www.NCPGambling.org/PGAM.