March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month – and with sports betting on the rise, so are the risks

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Turn on the TV at any time of day and you can tell that sports betting, right from your phone, is easier than ever.

March marks Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the risks associated with gambling, particularly the growing trend of sports betting.

The Oregon Health Authority says it's committed to providing resources and support for individuals and families affected by problem gambling.

As the popularity of sports betting continues to rise, so do the risks. Many individuals may find themselves vulnerable to the allure of betting on their favorite teams, especially with the hype around March Madness, which can lead to serious financial and emotional consequences. 

"Understanding the risks associated with gambling is crucial for our community," said Greta Coe, problem gambling program manager at OHA. "We encourage everyone to be informed and use the resources available to help prevent gambling-related harm."

Individuals who gamble should be aware of the signs of problem gambling, such as spending more time and money than intended, mental health concerns or having difficulty controlling the amount of time and money spent.

OHA provides a variety of no-cost resources to support individuals seeking help:

• 24/7 Confidential Helpline: A toll-free Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-695-4648 for those in need of immediate support.
• Online Resources: Visit the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource website for educational materials, self-assessment tools and information about local treatment options and support groups at www.opgr.org
• Evive: This innovative digital resource supports individuals seeking a healthier relationship with gambling, whether they want to stop, cut back, or feel more in control. Learn more at getevive.com.
• Gamfin: A financial counseling service for individuals and families affected by gambling addiction, offering expert support with budgeting, debt management, and rebuilding financial stability during recovery.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Lottery is focusing on collaboration and enhanced community outreach to increase awareness of problem gambling this month. By participating in the annual grassroots campaign, the lottery works with local and national partners to promote available prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

This year’s theme, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” emphasizes a collective responsibility for preventing gambling-related harm and a community-driven approach to awareness and support.

“We really connected to this year’s theme,” said Stacy Shaw, who leads Oregon Lottery’s Safer Play Program and is on the board of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling. “We see our biggest impacts when we collaborate broadly to reach our players and develop resources and tools for Oregonians impacted by gambling issues.”

The Oregon Gambling Research Center, a division of the OCPG, recently completed a research study that highlighted the important role communities play in supporting Oregonians.

“Problem Gambling Awareness Month reminds us that gambling-related harm affects individuals, families, and communities, and that prevention and support are critical to recovery and healing,” said Glenn Yamagata, executive director of OCPG. “Our research shows the importance of strengthening these community pathways to reduce harm and create meaningful, lasting change.”

Oregonians can access online tools and connect with free, professional counseling year-round by going to the OPGR website.

The website provides a wide variety of resources designed to help people wherever they are on their help seeking journey. This includes free access to EVIVE – a first of its kind digital health app, offering solutions for quitting, moderating, or simply playing safer. New this year to anyone affected by gambling is GamFin, a free financial counseling and online community that offers support.

Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery revenue has funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $155 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.

About the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling
The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is the state affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its purpose is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling-related harm. Board members include individuals from the gaming industry, the treatment and prevention field, the recovery community, and state and county administrators.

About Oregon Lottery
Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery or to read the Responsible Gaming Impacts Report, visit www.oregonlottery.org.