Every April, National Child Abuse Prevention Month calls attention to the responsibility we all share in creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children. While conversations often focus on physical or emotional abuse, one critical risk factor is frequently overlooked: the impact of problem gambling within the home. [1] For thousands of Florida families, the…
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Gambling addiction rarely begins with a single catastrophic moment. Instead, it spreads quietly—one missed bill, one sleepless night, one strained conversation—until it affects nearly every part of life. Understanding how gambling harm shows up across major life domains is the first step toward interrupting the cycle. Just as important is knowing that confidential, multilingual, 24/7…
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Every year on April 6, schools, families, and communities across the country celebrate National Student‑Athlete Day—a moment to recognize the dedication, resilience, and leadership of young athletes who balance academics, training, competition, and community involvement. These students give their all, often with little spotlight and even less downtime. But as we honor their achievements this…
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Black History Month provides an important opportunity to honor the contributions and resilience of African Americans in healthcare, behavioral health, and public health, while also acknowledging the historical and ongoing inequities that affect health outcomes. In addiction and problem gambling prevention, this observance highlights the need for culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and equitable approaches to care.…
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Problem gambling affects far more than finances. As control slips, the impact often spreads into many areas of life. The deeper the struggle becomes, the more complex these challenges can feel. Let’s explore these effects and then look at ways to restore balance and stability. Here is a list of many of the areas that…
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Super Bowl LX and similar high-profile events can surface urges that many people thought were long behind them, especially in today’s world of online sports betting and prediction markets. For some, Super Bowl Sunday isn’t the Seattle Seahawks versus the New England Patriots – it’s “me versus my gambling problem.” Why Watching Comes with Risks…
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If you have begun recovery from gambling, or are considering taking your first step towards a life without gambling, understanding what a relapse prevention plan is – and how to use it – can be a powerful tool. It helps support both you and those around you by recognizing early warning signs that you may…
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For anyone concerned about gambling, it’s important to be aware of the risks presented by the NCAA College Football National Championship Game coming to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on January 19, 2026, which can create a “perfect storm” for those in recovery for a gambling problem. This year’s biggest college football showdown is…
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The idea of making New Year’s resolutions goes back more than 4,000 years to the ancient Babylonians. During a 12‑day festival called Akitu, which marked their new year in mid‑March, they pledged to their gods that they would repay debts and return borrowed goods. Keeping these promises was believed to bring favor; breaking them risked…
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Life can get busy with work, family, and everyday responsibilities, but for those who feel lonely or down, each day can feel like an eternity—especially for individuals struggling with problem gambling, substance use, depression, or other behavioral challenges. At the Florida Council on Problem Gambling (FCCG), our goal is to educate the public and raise…
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