March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a nationwide grassroots campaign to increase public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Together, we can help those who struggle by understanding the signs to look out for and learning how to get help if we notice harmful behaviors.

Problem gambling is a mental health disorder and can impact anyone, regardless of age or background. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, 2 million U.S. adults are estimated to meet the criteria for severe gambling problems. And in Nevada, it’s estimated that up to 6% of adults struggle with problem gambling.

As an offering of the State of Nevada Department of Health and Human Services’ Problem Gambling Services, Project Worth connects Nevadans with free and low-cost treatment options, and is sharing vital information for the underserved population who suffers from problems with gambling.

Know the Signs

Although problem gambling is a diagnosable mental health issue, it can still go unnoticed and untreated. That’s why it’s important to know the signs, which can include:

• Increasing preoccupation with gambling and a need to bet more money more frequently
• “Chasing” losses, which means betting even more to try to recoup previous losses
• Restlessness/irritability when trying to stop gambling
• Lying to loved ones, coworkers, and others about the extent of gambling activities
• Gambling to escape other emotional problems, such as guilt, anxiety or depression

For those who struggle with this issue, it can feel overwhelming or even hopeless. But there is help available.

How to Get Help

There are four state-funded treatment centers – two in southern Nevada and two in northern Nevada – that provide professional counseling to those who struggle with gambling. Assistance is also available to family members or others to help them cope with the gambling behavior of a loved one. Telehealth care via confidential phone or video calls is also available. State-funded treatment centers can be found on the Project Worth website.

The counseling and treatment provided by the state-funded centers has proven effective for those in treatment. A 2021 study conducted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas International Gaming Institute found that nearly 94% of people felt they were better able to control their lives after just 30 days of treatment.

The Project Worth website offers visitors a free, confidential quiz to help assess risk for problem gambling issues. It also connects people to the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, a local resource that provides people with information about gambling disorders; the National Council on Problem Gambling’s online chat service and 24-hour call or text helpline; and to Nevada 2-1-1, a site committed to helping Nevadans connect with the services they need.