HARRISBURG, PA — State leaders, including Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, gathered alongside representatives from the Pennsylvania Lottery, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania (CCGP) to inaugurate National Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). The annual initiative, now in its 22nd year, aims to educate Pennsylvanians on the signs of problem gambling and promote the availability of treatment and recovery resources throughout the Commonwealth.

During the event, officials emphasized the importance of raising awareness about gambling addiction—a condition that can affect mental, emotional, and financial health. “Knowledge is power, especially in terms of prevention,” remarked Dr. Davis-Jones, who reiterated the effectiveness of treatment in helping individuals recover from gambling-related disorders.

To support individuals experiencing harmful gambling behaviors, the state offers a 24-hour Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER and an online chat service facilitated by the CCGP. These resources aim to address troubling behaviors such as gambling to escape problems, borrowing money to continue gambling, and struggling to control or stop the habit despite negative consequences.

A key speaker, David Yeager, a veteran in long-term recovery from gambling addiction, shared his story to highlight the impact of problem gambling. Yeager now dedicates himself to raising awareness for those, including military service members, who may not recognize gambling addiction as a treatable condition until facing severe consequences.

Pennsylvania’s commitment to understanding gambling trends is bolstered by an annual report produced in collaboration with Penn State University, DDAP, and PGCB. The 2024 report revealed key insights into online gambling behaviors, noting nearly two-thirds of Pennsylvanians engaged in some form of online gambling last year, with sports betting being the most popular activity. Notably, individuals who gamble both online and in-person exhibit the highest risk for gambling issues.

Elizabeth Lanza, Director of the PGCB’s Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling, emphasized the importance of responsible gaming initiatives, prevention tools, treatment accessibility, and self-exclusion programs in addressing gambling-related harms.

The kickoff event served as a stark reminder of the challenges some Pennsylvanians face with gambling, while reinforcing the availability of assistance and recovery programs. Looking ahead, state leaders and partners aim to expand public awareness efforts and ensure prevention resources reach those most vulnerable to gambling addiction, underscoring the shared responsibility to address this growing challenge across the Commonwealth.

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