Getting to Know KnowTheOdds.org Posted On

Gambling addictions and problem gambling affect hundreds of thousands of people in New York State every year. Money is lost, relationships with family and friends are threatened, and property, careers and reputations are often sacrificed. Acknowledging the existence of a gambling problem and asking for help are the first steps in recovery, and it is critically important that support be available immediately.

Welcome to KnowTheOdds.org, where individuals struggling with problem gambling, whether their own personal gambling or that of a family member or friend, can seek information and assistance in the recovery process. Here, you’ll be able to search through a variety of resources about gambling, such as:

  • What are the signs of problem gambling?
  • What are the risks of problem gambling?
  • Who is gambling? Are my children?
  • How can I help my family member stop gambling?
  • What do I do if my coworker is gambling too much at work?
  • Where can I find help?

Personal and financial losses can accumulate quickly, but we know that problem gambling can be stopped. Problem gambling is treatable. With the right information, counseling and support, individuals, family and friends can reverse the consequences of a gambling addiction.

Available now on KnowTheOdds.org are two comprehensive resources for information with regard to problem gambling and help available throughout NY:

understanding problem gamblingThe Understanding Problem Gambling e-book provides a comprehensive look at the definitions of problem and pathological gambling, demographics and risk factors, consequences and additional statewide online resources. Download the resource guide and examine the chapter listings. Read the entire resource for a complete introduction to problem gambling, or go directly to the section that will answer the immediate questions you may have. More resource guides are on the way.

One of the most important things a problem gambler can do to begin recovery is seek assistance from experts who have aided others in fighting addictive behaviors. The Gambling Support Directory provides a list of resources for problem gambling help available throughout New York State. Search through the directory to find counseling and support services available in your area, and read the directory descriptions to contact the service best suited to assist you.

But we haven’t stopped at just written resources. We’re also embarking on a video campaign to visualize the financial, emotional and personal consequences associated with problem gambling. The videos featured below serve to give just a taste of what’s to come.

And we’re just getting started.

As a yearlong campaign sponsored by New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG), KnowTheOdds is determined to raise awareness about the consequences of problem gambling and the resources available to end its dominance in so many people’s lives. That means more resource guides, videos and sharable content are on the way.

No one needs to struggle with addiction alone. We’re here to start conversations about problem gambling and expose just how many people are affected.

Follow our Facebook and Twitter pages to be kept up-to-date about new information, gambling legislation, studies and trends. Comment. Ask questions. Engage. Share what you learn.

And if you need help stopping problem gambling, our experts are ready to answer your call: 1-877-8-HOPENY.