Programs and Materials for Military and Veteran Service Providers

Recent research reveals that as many as 56,000 active duty members of the Armed Forces meet the criteria for gambling disorder, and studies have shown that veterans have elevated rates of gambling problems, at least twice the rate of the general adult population. Gambling disorder is an addiction similar to other substance use disorders, such as those associated with alcohol and drugs. In addition to causing financial and legal problems, it is also correlated with an increased incidence of suicide attempts, substance use disorders, and other behavioral health conditions. Prevalence of gambling disorder in the military is a serious health and financial issue, and also poses a national security concern, harming individual readiness and human performance and increasing affected service members’ susceptibility to blackmail and other malign influence.

As background, the FCCG was established in 1988 and is a non-profit educational and advocacy organization providing problem gambling resources and supports through a confidential HelpLine, 888-ADMIT-IT, available 24/7 to anyone in need of assistance or information related to disordered gambling. While maintaining a gaming neutral stance on legalized gambling, our mission is to increase public awareness regarding risks and consequences associated with gambling, as well as to provide assistance for problem gamblers, their families, and others adversely affected. Additionally, the FCCG provides FREE services and supports to mental health professionals and others servicing this population. Contact the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine today to inquire about the following available resources:

Military Flyer

This is a general information flyer (one-page) you can use as a brief, educational overview of Gambling Disorder and the military.

Military Soldiers and Veterans Brochure

The FCCG’s military program, Combat Gambling Addiction: A Toolkit for the Military, was designed to educate and provide resources for military members (both active duty and retired) and their families. This brochure is part of that toolkit and provides information and resources for military soldiers and veterans.

Military Families Brochure

The FCCG’s military program, Combat Gambling Addiction: A Toolkit for the Military, was designed to educate and provide resources for military members (both active duty and retired) and their families. This brochure is part of that toolkit and provides information and resources for military family members.

Combat Gambling Addiction: A Toolkit for the Military

The FCCG’s military program, Combat Gambling Addiction: A Toolkit for the Military, was designed to educate and provide resources for military members (both active duty and retired) and their families. This is of particular significance as research has shown that the highest level of pathology was found among male veterans. This program offers awareness materials for soldiers, veterans, and their families. In addition, it contains a guide for military health care professionals, screening and assessment tools, a PowerPoint presentation for educational forums, an article for print and online publications, a poster with accompanying brochure, and more.

Prevention is Key, and Treatment is Available

As prevention is key, the incorporation of responsible gaming programs into existing programs on substance abuse, financial management, health and wellness for active duty personnel, veterans, and family members is also a recommendation. The FCCG would be happy to provide in-service trainings designed to meet site-specific needs on these, and any other identified areas of interest.

Through referral to the 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine, confidential problem gambling treatment and other supports are available for veterans, members of the military, and their loved ones (independent of the gambler’s willingness to get help). Contact the HelpLine today to learn more and request materials.