March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), a national campaign designed to increase awareness of problem gambling and promote prevention, treatment, and recovery services. As gambling becomes more accessible through online platforms, sports betting apps, and expanded legalization across states, it’s more important than ever to understand what responsible gambling truly means, and when gambling may be crossing the line.
The Growing Landscape of Gambling
Gambling participation continues to rise across the United States:
- According to the American Gaming Association, commercial gaming revenue reached a record $71.5 billion dollars in 2025, an 8.7% increase over the prior year. Sports betting revenue alone was over $15 billion.
- The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) estimates that approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults meet criteria for severe gambling disorder, while an additional 5–8 million experience mild to moderate gambling-related problems.
- NCPG also reports that 1 in 5 individuals with gambling problems have attempted suicide, underscoring the serious mental health risks associated with gambling addiction.
With greater access comes greater responsibility — both personally and within our workplaces and communities.
What Does “Responsible Gambling” Really Mean?
Responsible gambling means keeping gambling as a form of entertainment — not a way to make money, cope with stress, or solve financial problems. It means setting limits before you begin and sticking to them.
According to the International Center for Responsible Gaming, there are four key principles:
1. Understand the Odds
Games are designed so that the odds are not in favor of the gambler. Whether it’s a casino or an app, the advantage is not on your side. The “house” always wins.
2. Gamble Socially
Gambling in a social setting with trusted friends or family can help maintain accountability and perspective.
3. Set Healthy Boundaries
For example, decide that you are only going to spend one hour at the casino, or you will only bet on one game throughout the season. If you gamble on an app, use your phone settings to set limits on how much time you spend on a particular app.
4. Set Acceptable Loss Limits
Only gamble what you can afford to lose. Money spent should be viewed as the cost of entertainment — never as an investment.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling doesn’t always look obvious. Some warning signs include:
- Chasing losses (“I just need to win back what I lost.”)
- Gambling with money meant for bills or necessities
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Hiding gambling activity
- Irritability, anxiety, or depression related to gambling outcomes
- Neglecting work or family responsibilities
Gambling can become especially risky during high-stress situations — such as financial strain, loneliness, depression, or substance use. Increased online access means individuals can gamble privately and continuously, which may accelerate harm.
Gambling and the Workplace: A Risk to Productivity
With events like March Madness, gambling can easily enter workplace culture. While office pools may seem harmless, there are important considerations:
- The American Gaming Association estimated in 2025 that there were $3.1 billion in legal wagers placed during March Madness – and that number didn’t include the billions of dollars that Americans bet when participating in “friendly” tournament brackets.
- Productivity losses in the workplace during and after major sporting events are estimated in the billions annually due to distraction and absenteeism.
- Workplace gambling activities can create legal, ethical, and morale concerns — particularly for employees who may be struggling financially or managing gambling-related stress.
Prevention Starts with Awareness
If you choose to gamble, consider these additional guidelines:
- Never feel pressured to gamble.
- Avoid gambling when stressed, angry, lonely, or under the influence of alcohol.
- Do not borrow money to gamble.
- Never gamble to “fix” financial problems.
- If you are in recovery for other addictive disorders, gambling may increase the risk of relapse.
Problem gambling is a behavioral health issue — not a moral failing. Like other addictions, it is treatable with the right support.
Help Is Available
If you or someone you know may be struggling with gambling:
- Contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Visit the National Council on Problem Gambling website for resources and state-specific support
- Access EFR’s outpatient counseling services
- Use your EFR Employee Assistance Program (EAP) benefit for confidential support
Seeking help is a sign of strength. Early intervention can prevent financial hardship, relationship strain, and mental health crises.
Remember, if you find yourself in any sort of crisis, be sure to call your EAP to see what help and resources are available to you.