CHARLESTON March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. It is estimated that four percent of adults in the U.S. have a gambling problem. The risk for college age youth is much higher. Illinois is ranked first among the states in the most gambling related arrests per capita. Problem gambling affects both the person doing the gambling as well as their family and friends. Problem gamblers often cannot see clearly the ways that their gambling is causing harm, and often hide the true extent of the problem from themselves and their loved ones.

Hour House will be providing problem gambling screenings from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10. The gambling screenings are free and confidential and can be conducted by phone or at any of the outpatient locations in Shelbyville, Mattoon and Charleston. Call 217-348-8108 for the free screening or to ask about starting services.

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If you are concerned about the effects gambling is having on you, your family or your finances, this is an opportunity to have a brief discussion about the issues you are experiencing and formulate a plan to get help if necessary. This is also a great day to call and talk over your concerns about someone elses gambling behavior and the effects it is having on you, and on them.

Gamblers Anonymous (a 12-step group similar to AA) meets on Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. at their 726 4th St. location in Charleston. Anyone with a desire to stop gambling is welcome to attend. There is no fee to attend GA and walk-ins are welcome.

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Problem gambling screenings to be held | Health, Medicine and Fitness - Journal Gazette and Times-Courier