Each March, OPGS joins communities across Massachusetts in recognizing Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and expanding access to support for individuals and families affected by problem gambling. Throughout the month, OPGS collaborated with partners across the state to bring conversations about gambling-related harm into community spaces, professional trainings, and public forums, with a shared commitment to raising awareness.

This year’s observance included several events and activities designed to deepen understanding of gambling‑related risks and strengthen community capacity to respond.

The Office and partners attended the Massachusetts State House’s event: A Spotlight on Youth: Safeguarding Kids from Gambling Harm, which highlighted the risks that young people face in a quickly changing landscape of gambling and what is being done in response to support young people across the Commonwealth. The Office presented on its ongoing work with youth involved in the Photovoice Project and the Youth Leaders Project, in addition to an interactive exhibit that was on display for a week in the State House lobby.

In addition to live events, activities included a re-launch of the Gambling Health Screener campaign, which was designed to encourage individuals to participate in the brief screener on the Massachusetts Problem Gambling website to better understand ones gambling habits and to help them decide whether to get a formal evaluation. As additional campaign elements were finalized, they were shared with our networks throughout the month.

National Problem Gambling Awareness Month always serves as an important reminder that gambling‑related harm can affect anyone, and that timely, compassionate support can make a meaningful difference. Whether through education, prevention, or connections to care, OPGS remains committed to working alongside communities to promote health, reduce disparities, and make sure that individuals and families across Massachusetts have access to the resources they need.