March 7-12

Raising awareness is key to helping people with gambling problems.  Delaware’s Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health and the Delaware Council on Gambling Problems are coordinating efforts during National Problem Gambling Awareness Week, March 7-12.

During National Problem Gambling Awareness Week, communities in Delaware and nationwide are working to raise awareness of the consequences of problem gambling and the resources available for individuals whose gambling is causing disruption in their lives. A primary focus of the effort is to promote the fact that treatment works and is available in Delaware.

The Delaware Council on Gambling Problems has scheduled several events statewide to raise awareness about problem gambling and the treatment services available. The kickoff event will specifically focus on educating the faith community.  On March 7, Dr. Deborah Haskins will present Gambling Among the Congregants: What should we know at the PAL Center, 3707 N. Market St., Wilmington, 6-8 p.m. Dr. Haskins, an adjunct faculty member at Loyola College and a nationally recognized expert on spirituality and gambling problems, will address cultural and social issues of gambling found in the African-American family system. Dr. Haskins and the Delaware Council on Gambling Problems also will release a 30-minute video about gambling in the African-American community.

DSAMH and the council also will host free, anonymous and confidential gambling screenings around the state.

• March 8 - Dover Downs, 3-8 p.m.
• March 9 - Midway Slots, Harrington, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• March 10 - Carvel State Building mezzanine, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
  Post Office Distribution Center, Hare’s Corner, 3-6 p.m.
• March 11 - Delaware Park, Stanton, 3-9

Individuals also can complete a screening anonymously and conveniently online at www.ncpgambling.org. The Delaware Council on Gambling Problems provides free and confidential assessment and treatment services.

For more information on treatment services, contact the Delaware Council on Gambling Problems at www.dcgp.org.