Blog

August’s National Immunization Awareness Month encourages families across Florida to prioritize preventive care — from routine vaccinations to annual check‑ups and conversations about overall well‑being. At the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG), we view this observance as an opportunity to highlight a broader truth: protecting family health includes supporting emotional resilience, digital safety, and…
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Summer break can bring fun, freedom, and a welcome change of pace for young people. But with more unstructured time, greater screen use, and fewer daily routines, summer can also increase the risk of problem gambling for youth and teens in Florida. It is important for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members to understand how…
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July’s Disability Pride Month is an important time to honor the experiences, strengths, and rights of people with disabilities. It is also a time to recognize that disability can intersect with mental health challenges and increase vulnerability to gambling-related harm. [1] At FCCG, we believe prevention and recovery work best when support is inclusive, accessible,…
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Summer in Florida brings a wave of major sporting events, celebrations, and increased social activity—along with a noticeable rise in sports betting visibility. As conversations around gambling expand and access through mobile platforms becomes more seamless, individuals in recovery or those concerned about their gambling habits may face added challenges during this time. In addition…
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Father’s Day and Men’s Health Month in June are powerful reminders that the men and fathers in our lives deserve protection not only from physical health risks, but from hidden dangers like problem gambling — especially following the legalization of online sports betting. In Florida, the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine is seeing firsthand how quickly sports wagering…
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When problem gambling affects a household, it rarely impacts just one person. Financial strain, broken trust, emotional distress, and communication breakdowns can touch every member of the family. Partners may feel betrayed, children may feel confused or neglected, and loved ones often carry stress in silence. Recovery is not just an individual process—it’s a family…
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June is National PTSD Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the lasting impact of trauma and the many ways it can affect a person’s mental health, behavior, and daily life. While PTSD is often associated with anxiety, flashbacks, and emotional distress, one lesser-discussed connection is its link to problem gambling. For many individuals,…
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May is Older Americans Month—a time to recognize the strength, experiences, and contributions of older adults in our communities. [1] It is also a critical moment to shine a light on issues that can quietly undermine their health and independence, including problem gambling. While gambling is often portrayed as harmless fun or a simple social…
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Each May, National Mental Health Awareness Month invites us to take a closer look at the many ways mental health shapes our lives. While conversations often focus on depression, anxiety, and substance use, one issue is frequently overlooked: problem gambling. Too often, gambling is seen as a financial issue—something that only becomes serious when money…
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The Kentucky Derby and the rest of the Triple Crown season can be a dangerous detour for anyone working hard to stay in recovery from problem gambling, even when they “don’t bet on horses.” In 2026, the racing calendar and a booming sports-betting environment create more triggers, more access, and more pressure than ever before.…
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