Compulsive Gambling Awareness

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term "Problem Gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "Pathological", or "Compulsive" Gambling, a progressive addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.  (From the National Council on Problem Gambling website)

Problem Gambling Resources:

The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling toll-free help line for gamblers or family members who are affected by compulsive gambling.

1-800-426-2535.

Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling (WCPG)- The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling is a state affiliate of the NCPG. Information about National Certification for the treatment of pathological gambling can be found on the NCPG website

National Council on Problem Gambling. The Mission of the National Council on Problem Gambling is to increase public awareness of pathological gambling, ensure the widespread availability of treatment for problem gamblers and their families, and to encourage research and programs for prevention and education.

NORC Diagnostic Screen for Gambling Problems-Self Administered (NODS-SA)  This tool from Aurora Health Care, provides a simple self test to evaluate your gambling behavior. Please note: This is not a diagnosis and DOES NOT replace a face-to-face evaluation with a trained clinical professional.

Aurora Health Care is a not-for-profit Wisconsin health care provider & home to Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Wisconsin's Compulsive Gambling Awareness Campaign

The Department of Health Services has entered into a contract with the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling (WCPG) to develop a statewide awareness campaign addressing the issue of compulsive gambling. The WCPG is one of 33 state affiliate councils of the National Council on Problem Gambling. Their primary mission is to educate and promote public understanding of problem gambling and the disorder of compulsive gambling. Among the initiatives planned for the campaign are the expanded visibility of the Council's 24-hour help line which provides referral services for callers, a public relations/media campaign, piloting and of a high school gambling prevention curriculum, training for human service professionals, and the development and implementation of a statewide information and networking conference. The WCPG is located in Green Bay and has a toll-free help line for gamblers or family members who are affected by compulsive gambling.

The number is: 1-800-426-2535.

Last Revised: January 29, 2009