In light of an eclectic mix of responsible gambling events taking place this March across the US, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) showcases its commitment to encouraging such practices within the state.
Held annually in March, Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) is a countrywide campaign, organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). The initiative aims to raise public knowledge of problem gambling and foster related prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
The current week marked the beginning of the campaign, whose schedule is packed with various events across the country, including interactive discussions, conferences, and gambling disorder screening tests.
One of these events is an educational podcast series called Double Down Michigan, organized by the MGCB. This year marks the first anniversary of the podcast, which was launched last year in March.
The podcast is geared towards informing people about the state’s gambling industry, with the host being the Board’s Executive Director, Henry Williams, and guests of different backgrounds. Covering a wide range of topics, from regulation to illegal gambling and responsible gambling practices, the episodes are educational and engaging.
Under its News Section, the MGCB accentuated a forthcoming interview, scheduled to air on March 21. Henry Williams will talk with Daniel Trolaro, Vice President of Prevention – US at EPIC Global Solutions. A former gambling addict, he is now an eminent gambling prevention expert, who will share insights and tips with citizens on how to discern the warning signs of problem gambling and seek professional help.
Trolaro is among the multiple gambling experts who collaborate with the MGCB to raise awareness of the best practices within the industry and promote responsible gambling behavior, encouraging citizens to prioritize control over their gambling.
The gambling prevention expert further explained that given the ever-expanding opportunities and the easy accessibility of gambling, it was of essential importance to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm.
NCPG Data Suggests 1% of the US Population Meet the Criteria for Severe Problem Gambling
According to data from the NCPG, 1% of the US population meet the criteria for severe problem gambling behavior. That means that nearly 2.5 Million US citizens are in need of professional counseling and treatment. Another 2-3%, or approximately 5-8 Million people, are considered moderate problem gamblers. In relation to these figures, Mr. Trolaro further highlighted how important it is to promote the available support resources.
The MGCB’s news release informed citizens of the state that they could listen to the podcast episodes on Buzzsprout, Spotify, and iHeart Radio, among other podcast apps.
In another regulatory context, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports also marked Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The government office launched a new problem gambling bureau that will be tasked with administering a series of surveys exploring gambling behaviors. In addition, the bureau will promote and expand effective services, as well as allocate future gambling funding.
