Why We Must Discuss Gambling Disorder for Men’s Health Month
Did you wear blue yesterday?
In 1994, President Clinton proclaimed “Blue Monday” as the kickoff event for Men’s Health Week. Each year since, the nation observes Men’s Health Week from Blue Monday to Father’s Day to bring focus on the health issues affecting men. In tandem, the entire month of June has been dubbed Men’s Health Month, a health education campaign dedicated to raising the awareness of preventable health problems among men.
The top health issues affecting men include prostate cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and workplace accidents, along with a higher risk of suicide. Men are also more likely candidates for substance abuse and are more than twice as likely to suffer from alcoholism. But did you know that men are more likely to develop Gambling Disorder?1
The Majority of 888-ADMIT-IT Callers are Men
![[IMAGE] The Majority of 888-ADMIT-IT Callers are Men](http://blog.gamblinghelp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/67-Percent-graphic-400x400-300x300.jpg)
According to 2016-2017 888-ADMIT-IT HelpLine data, sixty-seven percent (67%) of all HelpLine callers were men, and all of the callers aged 20 or under were male.2 It is time to bring Gambling Disorder to the table for men’s health awareness.
Gambling problems are no joke. Most people who choose to gamble can do so responsibly, but some are unable to control their urges. Also known as the Hidden Addiction, problem gambling comes with no visible symptoms and impacts individuals, families, and communities. Gambling Disorder can also lead to a higher likelihood of suicidal ideation for anyone – not just men.
Thankfully, you can access help for yourself or a loved one 24/7 by calling the FCCG’s confidential and anonymous HelpLine at 888-ADMIT-IT (236-4848), texting to 321-978-0555, messaging through live chat at www.gambinghelp.org.
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (273-8255).
¹Shapira, Nathan A, et al. Gambling and Problem Gambling Prevalence Among Adults in Florida. Gambling and Problem Gambling Prevalence Among Adults in Florida.
²24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMBLING HELPLINE ANNUAL REPORT. The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, 2016-2017, 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMBLING HELPLINE ANNUAL REPORT.
