FCCG Announces March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month
SANFORD, Fla. (PRWEB) March 02, 2018 -- Today, the State advocate on gambling addiction announced that March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Florida and across the nation. According to Jennifer Kruse, Executive Director of the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG), “Problem gambling is a public health issue affecting hundreds of thousands of Floridians and it’s time to shine the light on a hidden addiction that often goes unnoticed and untreated.”
The not-for-profit corporation is calling upon elected officials, government organizations, gaming operators, academic institutions, law enforcement authorities, employers, community agencies, mental health and addiction professionals, and others to assist in spreading the message throughout the month of March that help and hope are available for people in need of assistance for a gambling problem. For information and free materials, call the FCCG’s 24-Hour HelpLine (888-ADMIT-IT) or place your request online at http://www.problemgamblingawarenessmonth.org. The FCCG is also inviting residents to the Alive After 5 event on Thursday, March 8th, from 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. in downtown Sanford on 1st Street for free screenings, materials and giveaways. The Agency will further have interactive activities for children and adults.
“Our collective efforts with government officials, media outlets, and others, alongside social media outreach will promote that help is only a phone call, text or chat away. The FCCG’s 24-hour HelpLine provides crisis intervention, information and referrals for self-help, free professional treatment and other resources to those suffering from the adverse effects of a gambling problem. Services are also available to family members and loved ones. In fact, we are offering a free webinar on March 2nd for treatment professionals, so they are equipped when working with romantic partners of problem gamblers,” explained Kruse.
In cooperation with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), the FCCG is urging organizations to get the word out on their websites and via social media that March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). “The devastating impacts of a gambling addiction affects individuals, families, communities and societies at large. However, recovery is possible for those who seek help,” concluded Kruse. For information or assistance, call the FCCG’s confidential and multilingual HelpLine (888-ADMIT-IT/888-236-4848) or visit online at http://www.gamblinghelp.org. The FCCG partners with organizations statewide providing PGAM materials and information and there is no cost to participate. For a full listing of 2018 PGAM partners, visit http://www.problemgamblingawarenessmonth.org.
Since 1988, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling has been fulfilling its primary mission by increasing public awareness about gambling addiction, by furnishing supports to problem gamblers and their families, by providing training to treatment and health care professionals, and to other organizations. The FCCG is one of more than 30 affiliates of the NCPG and maintains a neutral stance on legalized gambling. The Agency further serves as the statewide clearinghouse under contract with state government and is the only resource in Florida that offers around-the-clock assistance, free gambling addiction treatment, and other programs and services.
Jennifer Kruse, The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, http://www.gamblinghelp.org, +1 (407) 865-6200, [email protected]
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