March 9 is Gambling Disorder Screening Day

NYCPG, Western Problem Gambling Resource Center announce release of online screening tool for problem gambling risk

Guest Editorial

In honor of Gambling Disorder Screening Day (March 9) and Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) is announcing the release of an online self-screening tool for individuals who want to explore their risk for problem gambling. The tool guides individuals through a set of questions to help them examine their gambling behaviors and the possible consequences of their gambling activity. Individuals who complete the questionnaire receive personalized feedback and resources based on their own answers.

While it’s true that most individuals who gamble do so solely for entertainment and do not experience problems caused by their gambling, all gambling inherently involves risk. This risk is not only present in the activity of gambling, but also in the risk of causing negative consequences to their lives and the lives of those around them. For these individuals and families, gambling can have devastating effects to their lives. Effects can range from financial issues all the way to damaged relationships and lost jobs.

Just as there are varying levels of gambling activity and negative consequences, there are also varying levels of motivation and awareness about our gambling activity and the risk involved. While some people are ready to reach out directly for assistance, support and resources, others may be just starting to think about how their gambling is affecting their life. Others may only be curious about their gambling activity and the possible risk that they have.

In an effort to reach all individuals in New York state, those who are ready for assistance and those who are simply curious about how their gambling may put them at risk for future problems, NYCPG has a variety of resources available. The newest of these resources is the online self-screening tool. The tool is available at https://NYProblemGamblingHELP.org/e-Screener/.

For more information about Gambling Disorder Screening Day in NYS, Problem Gambling Awareness Month and tools to use in your community, visit: https://NYProblemGambling.org/PGAM/.  

For a full list of 2021 NYCPG Screening Day Partners, visit https://NYProblemGambling.org/PGAM/ and click “Screening Day Partners.”

If you are in need of support related to gambling, please visit www.NYProblemGamblingHelp.org to connect with resources in your community.

The New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) is a not-for-profit, independent corporation dedicated to increasing public awareness about problem and compulsive gambling and advocating for support services and treatment for persons adversely affected by problem gambling. NYCPG maintains a neutral stance on gambling and is governed by a board of directors. Find out more at www.NYProblemGambling.org.