Illinois is putting a spotlight on the hidden addiction with Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) declaring March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Buildings downtown Chicago will glow teal late this month to show unity, while the state launches initiatives to help individuals grappling with gambling disorders. The movement aligns with the buzz of the NCAA basketball tournaments. "This month is an extremely important time for IDHS and our providers to raise awareness for the recovery support services available for gambling disorder," said Dulce M. Quintero, Secretary Designate of IDHS, in a statement obtained by the Illinois government news site. She emphasized that those with a gambling disorder often conceal their struggles, and the state aims to broadcast a message of hope and recovery.
With nearly 400,000 residents affected by gambling disorders, IDHS is encouraging awareness through an art contest open to anyone in Illinois aged 14 and over. The contest, part of the "Are You Really Winning?" campaign, invites submissions across a variety of mediums. The chosen artwork will be displayed come June, hoping to offer a beacon of hope to those caught in the grip of gambling's seductive play. Details regarding the art contest and the "Are You Really Winning?" campaign can be found on the Illinois government website.
Illinois currently ranks fourth in the nation for total contacts to the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline. A stark 110% increase in screenings conducted by treatment providers showcases a rising tide of gambling-related concerns. Following this, IDHS's Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (SUPR) has revved up its efforts by training over 679 clinicians over the past four years in gambling disorder treatment services. In a coordinated push, SUPR is schooling providers on the Eisenberg Disordered Gambling Emphasized SBIRT (EDGE SBIRT) screening tool, while also bustling to host webinars, culturally focused conferences, and a Problem Gambling Summit, shared details on the state's website.
The array of initiatives comes not a moment too soon, as the affliction of gambling disorders continues to tug at the fabric of numerous Illinois families. Those struggling or knowing someone who is can find assistance through various channels such as calling 1-800-GAMBLER or visiting AreYouReallyWinning.com. Immediate support is also presented by texting GAMB to 833234, a resource made to help individuals take the first step toward reclaiming control of their lives.
