March Is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Problem Gaming Council said they “join other global responsible gaming organisations in dedicating March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month [PGAM].

A spokesperson said, “2023 marks the 20th anniversary of Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Problem gambling is defined as all gambling behaviour patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits. Current data supports that 2% of Bermuda residents report having problems with gambling in their lifetime.

“During March, the Problem Gaming Council will hold a series of webinars, run an awareness campaign, and launch Bermuda’s first problem gambling helpline. Callers to 1-441-232-HELP can get access to information about how to game responsibly, talk anonymously over the phone with a trained counsellor, and locate a local counsellor trained to treat problem gambling.

“US agencies originally designated March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month to coincide each year with March Madness, during which spectators are expected to wager over $3 billion on sports events. For the majority of adults, gambling can be a fun and entertaining experience, but there are risks involved.

“Sports bettors are at particularly high-risk for developing a gambling problem. According to the US National Survey on Gambling Attitudes and Gambling Experiences 2.0, four out of five sports bettors reported often needing to gamble more in order to achieve the same feeling of excitement. PGAM brings together a wide range of stakeholders. They work collaboratively to let people know that hope and help exist.”

“During Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and throughout the year, the Problem Gaming Council of Bermuda is committed to raising public awareness about what problem gambling is, and most importantly, the resources that are available to get help,” said the Problem Gaming Council’s chairperson Judith Hall-Bean.

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