The post Shining the Light on Women and Problem Gambling for Women’s History Month first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>When most people picture a problem gambler, they picture a man. That outdated image has real consequences. Women who struggle with gambling disorder are frequently overlooked, underserved, and underrepresented in research, recovery spaces, and public awareness efforts—leaving thousands without the help they need and deserve. This Women’s History Month, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) is using the light of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) to make one thing clear: women’s gambling stories belong at the center of this conversation. [1]
The landscape of gambling in America has shifted dramatically with the rise of online platforms and legal sports betting, and women are a growing part of that shift. According to the American Gaming Association, 26% of sports bettors are now women—and the share of women wagering on sports increased by 51% from 2023 to 2024 alone. Research from St. Bonaventure University found that 20% of women aged 18–49 now have an online account with a sports betting service. [2][3]
Yet even as the numbers rise, women’s experiences with problem gambling remain poorly understood. Most publicly available information still centers on women as partners of male problem gamblers, not as individuals experiencing gambling disorder themselves. That silence has a cost.
While online sports bettors contacting the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine remain predominantly male, a recent FCCG HelpLine report reveals this pattern has shown a modest but notable shift following the legalization of sports betting in Florida. During the 2023 calendar year, prior to legalization, female sports bettors accounted for just 1% of HelpLine contacts (2 of 242). In the 2024 calendar year, following legalization, the proportion of female sports bettors increased to 3% (18 of 645), and rose further to 4% in 2025 (24 of 655).
While males continue to represent the vast majority of sports betting-related help seekers, the number of female sports bettors seeking help increased more than tenfold from the pre-legalization period to the most recent post-legalization year. This emerging shift suggests a gradual broadening of the population impacted by sports betting and will be important to monitor over time.
While men are statistically more likely to develop gambling addiction overall, the way women experience it is meaningfully different—and in some ways, more immediately dangerous. Men tend to be drawn to skill-based, competitive gambling such as sports betting and card games, typically motivated by excitement, competition, and the desire to win.
Women, by contrast, are more likely to engage in chance-based gambling—slots, online bingo, lottery—and are far more likely to gamble as a means of emotional escape: a way of coping with depression, anxiety, loneliness, trauma, domestic abuse, or the relentless pressures of caregiving. As Christina Cook, founder of the peer-led recovery community The Broke Girl Society, puts it: “The majority of women gamble for escapism. They’re escaping societal pressures, they’re escaping job pressures, they’re escaping a relationship. Domestic violence, financial abuse … single motherhood.” [1]
Problem gambling is already known as “the hidden addiction” because it leaves no visible physical symptoms. For women, it runs even deeper. Women tend to prefer private forms of gambling—apps, online platforms, mobile slots—meaning that even the people closest to them may not notice that a problem has developed. Research indicates that women are less likely to seek help than men, driven by stigma, shame, fear of judgment, and a cultural expectation that they project emotional stability. [4]
The consequences of going undetected and untreated can be severe. Problem gambling is associated with financial ruin, damaged relationships, legal problems, and career loss —but perhaps most urgently, it carries the highest suicide rate of any addiction. Research published in 2026 in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that women with gambling disorder actually present a higher risk of gambling-related suicidal ideation than men. Yet women remain dramatically underrepresented in treatment settings—a gap that demands urgent action. [5]
Women who do recognize they have a problem face additional obstacles when seeking help. Traditional recovery spaces—including Gamblers Anonymous—have historically been male-dominated environments, which can be alienating or even re-traumatizing for women who have experienced abuse or assault. Research confirms that women who come forward to ask for help encounter twice the number of emotional, psychological, and social barriers compared to men. Internal barriers—denial, fear, shame, and ambivalence—routinely delay women from seeking help until they reach a crisis point. [6]
Reducing that distance between a woman in crisis and the help she deserves requires awareness, de-stigmatization, and access to resources designed with her in mind. That is precisely what PGAM is built to do.
This March, the FCCG is calling on all Floridians to raise awareness, stand together, and remove the stigma that prevents women—and everyone—from reaching out. As the only organization in the Sunshine State with over three decades of experience addressing problem gambling, the FCCG’s 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine delivers 24/7, confidential, and multilingual support tailored to each caller’s unique circumstances. FCCG HelpLine Specialists are trained to provide resources catered to the individual’s specific situation—including trauma-informed referrals, peer support through the Peer Connect Program, the Online Program for Problem Gamblers (OPPG), financial and legal resources, self-help literature specific to women, and referrals to certified treatment providers.
The results speak for themselves: 93% of help seekers reported reduced gambling after reaching out. Recovery is possible. Every woman deserves to see her story reflected in the path toward healing.
This Women’s History Month, don’t let stigma write the ending. Explore FCCG’s PGAM resources, free educational tools, and information about how to become a PGAM partner at the FCCG’s PGAM Microsite.
If you or someone you care about is worried about gambling, call the 24/7, Confidential, and Multilingual 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today. Help and hope are here.
References:
[1] Honey, Minda. “What Happens When Women Take the Bet?” Harper’s Bazaar, 15 Jan. 2026, www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/features/a69988971/rise-of-gambling-addiction-women/.
[2] Maseli, K. “Betting on Women: The Future of Gambling Is Changing.” Learning Cycle Collective: Global Voices on DEI, 20 Mar. 2025, blog-en.learningcycle.co/2025/03/20/betting-on-women-the-future-of-gambling-is-changing/.
[3] “St. Bonaventure/Siena Research Survey Reveals Almost 1 in 5 Americans Have an Online Sports Betting Account.” St. Bonaventure University, 5 Feb. 2024, www.sbu.edu/news/news-items/2024/02/05/st.-bonaventure-siena-research-survey-reveals-almost-1-in-5-americans-have-an-online-sports-betting-account.
[4] Kaufman, Anna, et al. “Barriers to Treatment for Female Problem Gamblers: A UK Perspective.” Journal of Gambling Studies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 Dec. 2016, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5579153/.
[5] Marionneau, Virve, et al. “Gender-specific risk factors for gambling-related suicidal ideation: Evidence from a help-seeking population” ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS A International Journal, ScienceDirect, 13 Jan. 2026, sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460326000237.
[6] Bulcke, Gina Marie. “Identifying Barriers to Treatment among Women Gamblers.” University of Pittsburgh, 13 Dec. 2007, d-scholarship.pitt.edu/concern/etds/81ea875f-2bd6-4068-9b3a-339c0c025bb5.
The post Shining the Light on Women and Problem Gambling for Women’s History Month first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>The post Shining the Light on Teen Problem Gambling Risks for World Teen Mental Wellness Day first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>Every March 2nd, communities around the world observe World Teen Mental Wellness Day to open conversations, reduce stigma, and connect young people with resources to support their health and well-being. This year, the date falls at the very start of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM)—and that timing matters. As gambling becomes more accessible than ever in Florida, teens and young adults are facing gambling-related risks that most adults aren’t even aware of. The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) is using this moment to shine the light on a growing public health concern: problem gambling among Florida’s youth. [1]
Problem gambling has long been called “the hidden addiction” because—unlike substance abuse—it leaves no visible physical symptoms. For teenagers, that invisibility is even more pronounced. Yet research makes the scope of the problem hard to ignore: globally, an estimated 33.7% of adolescents in North America have gambled in the past 12 months, and more than two-thirds of adult gamblers report that their exposure to gambling during adolescence was a key contributing factor to their current gambling behavior. What begins as casual participation—a bracket challenge, a friendly bet on a game—can quietly evolve into a serious problem. [2]
Closer to home, Florida-specific research paints a striking picture. Lifetime participation in gambling was nearly 70% among Florida residents between the ages of 13 and 17, with over 40% reporting gambling in the past year and 11.5% identifying as weekly gamblers. These are not adults. These are high schoolers—and the risk does not stop there. [3]
The teen brain is not fully developed until around age 25, leaving adolescents far more susceptible to impulsive decision-making and risk-taking behaviors than adults. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), adolescents are especially susceptible to gambling-related harm due to heightened reward sensitivity and immature executive control and impulsivity—and the accessibility of mobile sports betting only amplifies those vulnerabilities. Exposure to sports betting advertisements and “risk-free” promotions via social media and sports media platforms further fuels irrational beliefs about winning, which research has shown to be a key driver of problem gambling among adolescents. [4]
The data bears this out. A 2025 report found that 5% of children aged 12–17 are now grappling with gambling issues—a number that has quadrupled in just two years. Teen boys are at particular risk: young males aged 25 and under are more likely to meet the criteria for problem gambling. [5]
Since the legalization of sports betting in Florida on December 7, 2023, the FCCG has observed a dramatic surge in help contacts—particularly among young people. Calls to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine doubled in mid-December 2023, shortly after the launch of Hard Rock Bet, with young men making up a large share of those contacts. Post-legalization data shows that 43% of online sports bettors experiencing problems in Florida are 25 and under, and more than half (51%) of sports bettors seeking help started gambling at or before the age of 20. Overall, FCCG data shows that online gambling help contacts have increased 426% since 2019–2020.
Florida college students are also significantly more at-risk than the general adult population, with 14.5% at risk for developing gambling problems compared to 7.1% of adult residents. The FCCG’s own college gambling research found that sports betting was the number two form of gambling among problem and disordered college student gamblers—a finding that was established before sports betting was legalized and made available on every smartphone. [6]
Problem gambling doesn’t just affect a teen’s wallet—it can unravel nearly every area of their life. Research shows that adolescent problem gambling is associated with poor academic achievement, school truancy, financial problems, depressive symptoms, low self-esteem, deterioration of social relationships, substance abuse, and even suicidal ideation. Adolescent problem gamblers in Florida also had significantly higher rates of alcohol, drug, and tobacco use compared to non-gambling peers. These are not isolated statistics—they reflect the cascading consequences of an addiction that often goes undetected and untreated for far too long. [3]
World Teen Mental Wellness Day exists to remind us that no young person should face mental health challenges alone—and problem gambling is no exception. As we enter PGAM, the FCCG is calling on parents, educators, coaches, healthcare providers, and community members to become educated, speak openly, and remove the stigma that prevents teens from asking for help.
As the only organization in the Sunshine State with over three decades of experience addressing problem gambling, the FCCG’s 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine provides 24/7, confidential, and multilingual support—including youth-specific resources and referrals designed specifically for Florida’s young gamblers and their loved ones. Free resources available through the HelpLine include youth-specific mental health and treatment services, self-exclusion programs, and educational literature for parents, youth service providers, and college faculty and staff. There is also a free College Student Online Assessment available on our website. The results speak for themselves: 93% of help seekers reported reduced gambling after reaching out.
This World Teen Mental Wellness Day—and all March long—the FCCG invites you to shine the light on teen gambling risks. Learn more, access free educational resources and interactive games, and find out how to become a PGAM partner by visiting the FCCG’s PGAM Microsite.
If you’re worried about a young person’s gambling, or your own, don’t wait. Call the 24/7, Confidential, and Multilingual 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today. Help and hope are just one call away.
References:
[1] “World Teen Mental Wellness Day.” National Today, 15 Dec. 2021, nationaltoday.com/world-teen-mental-wellness-day/.
[2] “Youth Gambling Factsheet Updated October 8, 2025.” National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), Oct. 2025, www.ncpgambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025-Youth-Gambling-Factsheet.pdf.
[3] Shapira, N. A., Ferguson, M. A., Frost-Pineda, K., & Gold, M. S. (2002). Gambling and Problem Gambling Prevalence among Adolescents in Florida.
[4] Volkow, Dr. Nora. “Gambling Disorder in the Age of Mobile Sports Betting.” National Institutes on Drug Abuse, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 14 Nov. 2025, nida.nih.gov/about-nida/noras-blog/2025/11/gambling-disorder-in-the-age-of-mobile-sports-betting.
[5] Schlott, Rikki. “NYC-Area Boys Using Bar Mitzvah Money to Gamble as Sports Betting Addiction on the Rise with Teens.” New York Post, 16 Oct. 2025, nypost.com/2025/10/16/lifestyle/sports-betting-addiction-on-the-rise-with-teens-according-to-kids/.
[6] Gupta, R. & Derevensky, J. International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors, McGill University and Center for Research, Evaluation, Assessment and Measurement (CREAM) Department of Africana Studies at the University of South Florida (2008). Gambling and Problem Gambling Prevalence Among College Students in Florida.
The post Shining the Light on Teen Problem Gambling Risks for World Teen Mental Wellness Day first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>The post WEB LETTER: March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). Nationally recognized for its comprehensive support, localized resources, and personalized service, the 888‑ADMIT‑IT HelpLine stands as the trusted gateway to recovery for anyone in Florida concerned about gambling.
As the only organization in the Sunshine State with over three decades of experience providing support and programming for this issue, it’s no coincidence that 93% of help seekers reported reduced gambling after reaching out.
If you’re worried about your gambling or that of a loved one, call the 24/7, Confidential, and Multilingual 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine! Learn more about the 2026 PGAM campaign here.
FCCG’s PGAM campaign is designed to help Floridians better understand problem gambling, recognize the warning signs, and know that gambling addiction is treatable. This March, our objectives include raising awareness, standing with the people and partners who make prevention and support possible, and helping reduce stigma so more individuals and families feel safe reaching out.
It is no coincidence that PGAM coincides with NCAA March Madness, running from March 15 to April 6, 2026. The tournament is one of the most heavily bet-on sporting events of the year, with Americans expected to legally wager billions of dollars on the men’s and women’s games this season.
While office pools and bracket challenges have normalized this behavior, the widespread popularity of betting during the tournament and ease of access through betting apps creates an incredibly high-risk environment for those at risk of or in recovery from problem gambling.
The emotional intensity and rapid succession of games can easily drive impulsive decisions, leading individuals to try and chase their losses in a vicious cycle. Furthermore, the constant barrage of sports betting advertisements and social pressure during March Madness can act as severe triggers, making the continuous support offered by the FCCG essential.
As gambling becomes more accessible, FCCG emphasizes the growing need for continued community support so we can assist people who reach out for help. FCCG’s HelpLine data reflects rising demand: Florida problem gambling help contacts increased 50% since last year and 163% since 2019–2020, while online gambling help contacts increased 110% since last year and 426% since 2019–2020. Watch our video on the impacts and download our latest HelpLine reports here.
Importantly, FCCG reports that online gambling problem contacts rose 138% since the legalization of sports betting on December 7, 2023. The organization also notes it is fielding a record number of media requests in connection with gambling expansion and a surge in 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine contacts—another signal that this issue is increasingly visible and urgent.
Tuesday, March 10th is National Gambling Disorder Screening Day, which urges medical, mental health, and other health care professionals to serve as hosts this Screening Day by conducting a quick 3-question assessment on patients who present with various physical and emotional difficulties to determine whether further evaluation for a gambling problem may be warranted. Are you a treatment provider? Learn more about how you can participate.
The 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is Florida’s 24/7, confidential, and multilingual gateway to free services and support for gamblers and loved ones. You can call or text 888-ADMIT-IT (236-4848), use live chat, email [email protected], or download the free mobile app to connect in just a tap or two.
By contacting 888-ADMIT-IT, help seekers can connect with resources such as the Online Program for Problem Gamblers (OPPG), Peer Connect, referrals to gambling addiction certified treatment providers, self-exclusion programs, self-help support groups and literature, plus financial and legal resources. If you’re worried about your gambling—or someone else’s—call the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine for help and hope today.
Get Involved This PGAM PGAM partners amplify this message across the state, from mayoral proclamations to gambling facilities raising awareness with employees and patrons. To explore FCCG’s PGAM resources, learn more about how to get involved, or access help, visit the PGAM Microsite at https://gamblinghelp.org/pgam/.
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]]>The post Black History Month and How Problem Gambling Impacts African Americans first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>African American communities may face unique risk factors related to addiction and problem gambling, including targeted marketing, economic stress, limited access to culturally relevant services, and stigma that can delay help-seeking. Prevention efforts during Black History Month emphasize early education, community-based outreach, and the normalization of conversations about mental health and behavioral addictions.
A 2021 study of rural African American adolescents found that youth who gambled showed substantial levels of gambling-related problems, with risk patterns similar to or more severe than those reported in predominantly White samples, despite limited prior research on Black youth. In the rural African American adolescent sample, earlier onset of gambling, higher frequency, and engagement in higher‑risk games (e.g., cards for money, sports betting) were associated with more severe gambling problems and other risk behaviors (substance use, delinquency). [1]
Reviews of legalized gambling’s impact on minority communities conclude that Black and other minority populations bear a disproportionate share of gambling’s social and economic costs, including debt, family conflict, and co‑occurring mental health issues. [2]
Work grounded in African‑descent communities describes gambling as a “hope‑seeking” behavior – a perceived pathway out of poverty or a way to manage chronic economic exclusion – rather than simply a leisure activity. [3]
By recognizing the role of social determinants of health, reducing stigma, and building trust through culturally informed prevention and treatment strategies, healthcare and behavioral health professionals can help support recovery, resilience, and long-term wellness—not only during Black History Month, but year-round.
Problem gambling affects individuals and families across Florida, including African American communities. While gambling harm can impact anyone, certain social, economic, and environmental factors within Florida may increase risk or create barriers to recovery.
Problem gambling is a treatable health condition—not a moral failing. With education, culturally informed support, and access to Florida-based resources, recovery and life balance are possible. In Florida and worried about your gambling or that of a loved one? Contact the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine!
References:
[1] Reilly, Theresa R., et al. “Relations among Gambling Behavior, Associated Problems, Game Type, and Risk Factors in a Rural, African American, Adolescent Sample – Journal of Gambling Studies.” SpringerLink, Springer US, 28 July 2021, link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10899-021-10060-z.
[2] Miller, Quincy. “Problem Gambling among POC: How Legalized Gaming Affects Minority Populations.” Culture.Org, 14 May 2025, culture.org/gambling/problem-gambling-poc/.
[3] Haskins, Deborah G. “African-Descent Problem Gambling: Who Say’s It’s a Problem?! Incorporating an Afrocentric Paradigm for Prevention Dr. Deborah G. Haskins for the Massachusetts Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling February 16, 2023.” Massachusetts Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, 16 Feb. 2023.
The post Black History Month and How Problem Gambling Impacts African Americans first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>The post Problem Gambling Side Effects: More Than Just Losing Money first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>Here is a list of many of the areas that problem gambling can cause disruption in your life:
If you feel like your gambling is becoming difficult to control, this list can help you better understand the seriousness of the problem. Take time to reflect on each point and how it shows up in your own life. Being honest with yourself is essential, and it may also help to invite someone you trust to walk through the list with you and offer their perspective. Each one of these can be devastating alone. Individuals suffering from gambling disorder experience many or even all of them at the same time – leading to chaos in their life and often for their loved ones as well.
Restoring balance and stability in your life often begins with reaching out for help and support—whether from someone you trust or by contacting the 888-ADMIT-IT Problem Gambling HelpLine in Florida. Acknowledging that there is a problem can be difficult, especially given the stigma surrounding problem gambling and the shame that can follow. These barriers can feel overwhelming, but support, education, and guidance about recovery resources are key steps toward healing. Finding balance starts with the willingness to face strong cravings and continue moving forward despite them.
What parts of your life are not in balance? What could you do to get them started back in the right direction? Think about a time when you were determined, or worked very hard at something, and were successful. How were you able to accomplish that? It may mean one step forward and one step back, but don’t let that get you down. Deal with feelings and emotions as they come up, and you can be successful!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or even just starting to see some signs, help and hope are available. If you or someone you know is impacted by problem gambling, call 888-ADMIT-IT (236-4848).
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]]>The post WEB LETTER: Super Bowl LX and Problem Gambling – Is Watching Worth the Risk? first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>Major sporting events are everywhere – on TV, social media, streaming platforms, and in group chats – which means constant exposure to scores, odds, and betting-related content. For someone who is in recovery or worried about their gambling, this wall-to-wall attention can feel less like entertainment and more like pressure.
Common triggers around the big game can include:
Even if a person has stepped away from gambling, these triggers can spark cravings, rationalizations like “just this once,” or a sense of missing out.
With online and mobile platforms, sports betting no longer happens only at physical locations or in person with friends. Bets can be placed in seconds from a phone or tablet, at home, at a party, or even during the game itself.
Features that can increase risk for those in recovery or at risk include:
The availability of online sports betting has turned watching sports into a more interactive, always‑on experience, where many fans now follow odds, props, and live wagers as closely as the game itself. For someone working hard to maintain changes around gambling, this combination of immediacy, convenience, and constant stimulation can make the big game feel like a minefield.
Prediction markets, which allow people to stake money on outcomes like game results, player performance, or off‑field events, can mimic many of the same risk factors as more traditional sports betting. They often present participation as data‑driven “forecasting” or “information markets,” but for an at‑risk individual or someone in recovery, the experience is simply another way to place a bet.
Potential concerns include:
For individuals who have chosen to limit or stop gambling, prediction markets can become a new pathway back into harmful habits.
If you are in recovery or concerned about your gambling, planning ahead for Super Bowl LX and other big events can help reduce risk and support your goals. You do not have to avoid the game entirely, but having a clear strategy makes it easier to stay aligned with your priorities.
Consider:
Sharing these plans with a trusted person or support network can make it easier to follow through when the excitement and pressure ramp up.
The legalization of sports betting is changing what the average problem gambling help seeker looks like in Florida. Beyond the growth of online sports betting as the Primary Gambling Problem, the FCCG has been tracking significant shifts in demographics and financial, mental health, and domestic impacts through anonymized data collected via its 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine.
To learn more, download the report here.
On Super Bowl Sunday, Florida is confronting a troubling trend behind the excitement. A new WPTV investigation uncovers an “astronomical” rise in mental‑health issues linked to the surge in sports betting since legalization, echoing the findings in FCCG’s latest 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine report. Watch the video below, and click here to read the whole story.
If watching the big game is starting to feel like a big risk, you are not alone, and reaching out is a sign of strength. The 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is available 24/7 to support anyone in Florida who is affected by gambling, whether directly or through a loved one.
Through 888-ADMIT-IT, you can:
If you or someone you know is worried about gambling, call 888-ADMIT-IT (888-236-4848) or explore gamblinghelp.org to learn more about problem gambling and the resources that can help. Text, chat, and online options are also available. You do not have to wait for a crisis; support is available before, during, and after the big game.
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]]>The post In Recovery from Problem Gambling? Here’s Why You Should Have a Relapse Prevention Plan. first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>The decision to stop gambling is a difficult one at best. The choices you make, and how you manage responsibility and accountability, will help you find recovery and a happier life. In order to stay in recovery, it is important you learn the cycle of addiction and the process of relapse (planned gamble) in order to stop the compulsive behavior. This includes new coping skills to fill in where the gambling left off, because gambling has been you way of coping all along. This means finding new ways of being with ourselves, family, and friends, while taking up new approaches to life’s pressures and situations.
Relapse isn’t failure. It’s information – a cue to adjust, not a reason to give up.
When problems aren’t addressed in healthy ways, stress begins to build, and gambling can seem like the easiest escape. A relapse is often best understood as a “planned gamble,” because it usually is. You may consciously or unconsciously begin setting things in motion, such as setting aside money, making time, or even preparing excuses or lies. One of the most effective safeguards is to remove access to money altogether, reducing the opportunity to act on the urge to gamble. The 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine offers Self-Exclusion Access to Cash resources to assist with this.
Stress is a major trigger for relapse, but it’s not the only one. The first 90 days of recovery are often the most challenging, as emotions that were long avoided or numbed by gambling begin to surface. Facing these feelings can be uncomfortable at first, but confidence grows as you develop healthier coping strategies. Change takes time and practice, so be patient with yourself, and don’t give up too soon.
By exploring FCCG’s website, you can learn more about common triggers, warning signs, and coping skills involved in the relapse cycle. This information can help you create a relapse prevention plan that fits your needs. The process may involve some trial and error. If you slip and gamble, don’t be hard on yourself – see it as a sign that a different coping skill may be needed for that situation. There are many different coping strategies, and what worked once may not work every time. If one doesn’t help, try another, combine strategies, or call or text the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine in the moment for support.
If possible, it’s important to share your triggers, warning signs, and coping strategies with trusted people in your life, so they can recognize them as they arise. It can also be helpful to make an agreement ahead of time: if they come to you with concerns, you commit to listening without anger. It’s a team effort! Instead, pause to review your relapse prevention plan and talk through the situation calmly. During a strong gambling urge, clear thinking can be difficult. The addictive drive often wants nothing more than to gamble and push aside anything or anyone that might stand in the way. Relapse prevention means making the commitment to do anything it takes to recover, and then not backing down from that fight. There will be many small battles to get through to make it to the other side of recovery.
Remember, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is always an option when difficult moments strike. Simply talking through the situation with a HelpLine Specialist can open the door to options that didn’t seem possible when you were trying to calm the urge on your own. Free resource referrals are available to help with every stage of recovery and every impact of a gambling problem.
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]]>The post WEB LETTER: A Perfect Storm for Problem Gambling Recovery Comes to Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>All of us living in Florida know storms; the energy, strength, and damage that can be done by them. There is no controlling a storm as it approaches. For someone in recovery from a gambling problem, even watching the forecast – the talking heads predicting how the college football playoff games will go and which teams will end up in the championship – can be triggering.
Many have noted how the widespread legalization of sports betting in America has permanently changed the experience of watching sports. These days, most sports programming and especially those nationally televised come with an impossible-to-ignore stream of sports betting ads. Betting odds, parlays, and live lines are now integrated into nearly every sports commentary, making gambling feel like part of the sport itself.
In Florida, online and mobile sports betting became fully legal and operational in late 2023, after clearing key legal challenges. Since then, contacts to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine in Florida have increased significantly, and Online Sports Betting has dominated as the most commonly reported Primary Gambling Problem. The most recent HelpLine data bears this out.
From July 1 – December 31, 2025, Online Gambling (of all types) held the top spot as the gamblers’ most frequently cited primary gambling activity, reflecting the preference of almost half (47%) of gamblers in need of problem gambling supports. The types of gambling activities most frequently cited as being the Primary Gambling Problem of gamblers, among 818 help contacts received where this information was provided, included Online Sports Betting (31%), Electronic Gambling Machines (29%), Online Casino Games (16%), Cards and Table Games (12%), and Lottery games (9%). For more of the most recent HelpLine statistics and data comparisons, see our full Activities Report.
Most Floridians can gamble safely as a form of entertainment, but for those who have a problem, the growing surge of sports betting opportunities woven into the fabric of sports events can feel like an inescapable storm. As the game approaches, advertisements will appear on the news, across social media, and throughout sports programming.
Although the legal age for sports betting in Florida is 21, we know that young people are especially vulnerable – both to peer pressure and to the constant stream of ads that often appeal to youth. No longer is gambling confined to the walls of a casino, and sharing access is as easy as passing the smartphone. Many times, kids and adolescents gain access to sports betting through a parent’s account. Some may have even received sports betting gift cards as holiday gifts! Even though the holiday season is behind us, the message from the Gift Responsibly Campaign carries throughout the year – find out why by learning more here.
If you’re concerned about your gambling or that of a loved one, don’t wait to reach out. In Florida, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is staffed around the clock to provide support, information, and free resource referrals for anyone seeking help for themselves or a loved one. The service is confidential, multilingual, and available 24/7 to anyone in Florida. Call or text the HelpLine number today, or open a live chat now.
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]]>The post New Year, New Boundaries: Protecting Yourself While Supporting a Problem Gambler first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>Today, New Year’s resolutions are a global tradition – a mix of self-improvement, reflection, and optimism. Common themes include health, finances, relationships, and personal growth. When making the resolutions, many truly believe they will stick to the promise they have made to themselves or others – but behavior or character changes are easier said than done.
When it comes to avoiding behaviors that have become addictive, it’s nearly impossible to succeed without support. For spouses or loved ones of someone struggling with problem gambling or drinking, it can be difficult to understand how completely these addictions can take over, even when they’re causing chaos. No one can force another person to stop something they aren’t ready to stop. The pull of addiction can be so strong that change often feels impossible – but it begins with small steps. The first steps are reaching out for help, finding support, and seeking education about the fight ahead.
To help you take those first small steps when it comes to a gambling problem, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine offers immediate access to support, information, education, and tailored resource referrals for loved ones. Even if the gambler is not ready to receive help or even admit to a problem, spouses and loved ones can seek help on their own. There is a lot to learn when facing the impacts of gambling addiction as a loved one, such as communication skills, assertiveness, setting boundaries, and putting financial safeguards in place. By calling or texting the 24/7 HelpLine, you can connect with online or local support groups, professional counselors who specialize in gambling-related issues, FCCG’s A Chance for Change Workbooks, FCCG’s Peer Connect Program, and so much more.
I believe in the ability to make my own life. There is nothing I cannot do.
You’re entitled to a set of fundamental personal rights simply by being human. Practicing assertiveness means recognizing that your needs and boundaries matter just as much as anyone else’s. How does it make you feel to read the following basic rights?
Has a loved one’s gambling challenged any of these? If so, call or text 888-ADMIT-IT today to reach a Specialist who can help you explore the impacts of problem gambling and the resources available to you.
When you begin practicing assertive behaviors – even if they feel uncomfortable at first – you’ll start to notice gradual changes within yourself. This is how healthy boundaries begin to form. With addiction, the saying “if nothing changes, nothing changes” holds true. The familiar dance that takes place in an addictive relationship can’t continue once one person starts changing their steps.
References:
[1] Boeckmann, Catherine. “How Did the Tradition of New Year’s Resolutions Start?” ALMANAC, 17 Dec. 2025, www.almanac.com/history-of-new-years-resolutions.
The post New Year, New Boundaries: Protecting Yourself While Supporting a Problem Gambler first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>The post How Checking in Makes a Difference in Problem Gambling Recovery first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
]]>Whether you know someone who is struggling or simply spending the holidays alone, reaching out can make a world of difference. A simple message like, “Hi, how are you doing?” can brighten their day. Social connection can better your physical and mental health at any age. Social connection is a fundamental human need which leads to better health, resiliency, and a longer lifespan.
Social connection plays a powerful role in supporting our mental health by easing anxiety, depression, and loneliness, while also reducing stress. Sometimes, simply talking with someone—being heard and sharing what’s on your mind—can help you feel more relaxed, cared for, and understood. As the saying goes, two heads are better than one! Feeling connected to others boosts happiness and contentment, while regular social interaction strengthens self-esteem and self-worth. People who maintain meaningful relationships often eat, sleep, and exercise better, thanks to lower stress levels and the comfort of feeling like they truly belong. Strong social ties can also reduce the risk of unhealthy behaviors and even suicide.
Have you ever felt lonely? Most of us have at one time or another—and we all know how good it feels when someone reaches out just to say hello. Connection is a two-way street; in any healthy relationship, you have to give to receive, and that simple act of reaching out can be life-changing for both people. This isn’t about checking in on someone because of their gambling issues—it’s simply about being a thoughtful, caring friend, and allowing yourself to accept that kindness in return.
Recovery from problem gambling is not a journey anyone should face alone. Regular check-ins—whether from friends, family, or professionals—can provide the encouragement, accountability, and hope needed to stay on track. If you or someone you care about is struggling, help is always within reach. Call or text the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today for confidential support, or visit the FCCG’s website at gamblinghelp.org to learn more about the support available.
The post How Checking in Makes a Difference in Problem Gambling Recovery first appeared on The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, Inc.
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