In honor of Gambling Disorder Screening Day (March 12th, 2024) and Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) is announcing the availability of a free, confidential, online self-screening tool for individuals who want to explore their risk for problem gambling. The tool guides individuals through a set of questions to help them examine their gambling behaviors and the possible consequences of their gambling activity. Individuals who complete the questionnaire receive individualized feedback and resources based on their answers and experiences.  

While it’s true that most individuals who gamble do so solely for entertainment and do not experience problems caused by their gambling, all gambling inherently involves risk. This risk is not only present in the activity of gambling, but also in the risk of causing negative consequences to their lives and the lives of those around them. For these individuals and families, gambling can have devastating effects on their lives. Effects can range from depression and anxiety or financial issues all the way to damaged family relationships and even loss of employment. 

Just as there are varying levels of gambling activity and negative consequences, there are also varying levels of motivation and awareness about our gambling activity and the risk involved. While some people are ready to reach out directly for assistance, support and resources, others may be just starting to think about how their gambling is affecting their life. Others may only be curious about their (or a loved one’s) gambling activity and the possible risk that they have.   

In an effort to reach all individuals in New York State, those who are ready for assistance and those who are simply curious about how their gambling may put them at risk for future problems, NYCPG and the Western PGRC have a variety of resources available. As mentioned, the newest of these resources is the confidential, online self-screening tool. No personal information is needed to utilize this valuable, user friendly resource. This free tool is available at NYProblemGamblingHELP.org/e-Screener/. 

For more information about National Gambling Disorder Screening Day in NYS, Problem Gambling Awareness Month or free tools to use in your community visit: NYProblemGambling.org/PGAM/.  

The New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) is a not-for-profit independent corporation dedicated to increasing public awareness about problem and compulsive gambling and advocating for support services and treatment for persons adversely affected by problem gambling. NYProblemGambling.org. 

If you need support related to gambling, please visit: NYProblemGamblingHelp.org to connect with resources in your community.  

Jeffrey Wierzbicki – jwierzbicki@nycpg.org (Confidential) or call 716-833-4274 (Confidential)