March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

For over 20 years, March has been recognized as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). Each year during March, basketball fans tune in to an elimination tournament of college basketball, known as March Madness. During March Madness 2023, over $15 billion was wagered during this time, and the American Gaming Association expects that amount to be even higher in 2024.

After the US Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on state authorization of sports betting, 38 states and DC have legalized sports betting in some form. Sports betting is expanding rapidly, and with it, the number of people impacted by problem gambling.

Four out of five adults can gamble recreationally with no problems. However, for Washington State residents who are experiencing negative impacts, several options for free or low-cost help are now available for Apple Health (Medicaid) and non-Medicaid individuals through the Health Care Authority.

Image of women on phone looking at sports gambling screen.

What is gambling?

Gambling is defined as having three components: 

  • Risking something of value (money or items, including virtual)
  • To win something (money, items, including virtual)
  • In an event in which the outcome is at least partially out of your control (chance). 

Legal gambling options in Washington include Tribal casinos, commercial card rooms, horseracing, the state lottery, pull-tabs, bingo, and other games of chance (including those for charity). 

What is the rate of problem gambling in WA State?

Based on the 2021 Washington State Adult Problem Gambling Prevalence study, 3.5 percent of adults who gambled were at a moderate-to-severe risk for a gambling disorder (approximately 90,000 adults) and an additional 17 percent had an increased risk for problem gambling (approximately 420,000 adults).

Online gambling is not legal in Washington, yet over 11 percent of adults who gambled reported gambling online, and had double the risk for problem gambling compared to adults who gamble overall.

What is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM)? #PGAM2024

Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a national campaign that includes participation from state agencies, recovery groups, treatment organizations and providers.

The theme for 2024 PGAM is “Every Story Matters”. Agencies and organizations across the country will air public service announcements and run social media campaigns.

How can I participate?

  • If your gambling behavior is negatively affecting your relationships, finances, or work life, you may want to consider taking a self-assessment from Gamblers Anonymous.
  • If you are concerned that a loved one may have a gambling problem, take an assessment from Gam-Anon.

What help is available in Washington?

  • If you need help, please call 1-800-547-6133 (Problem Gambling Helpline, available 24/7) 
  • As of January 2024, Apple Health (Medicaid) covers problem gambling assessment and treatment for enrolled individuals (including family members).
  • Washington residents and their loved ones who do not have insurance coverage and/or cannot afford to pay for problem gambling treatment may be eligible for free treatment through the State Problem Gambling Program.

Are there other resources?