News Update from the Region 5 Problem Gambling Awareness Team August 2023

Gambling is defined as risking something of value on the outcome of an event when the probability of winning is less than certain. Problem Gambling or Gambling Disorder is characterized by behavior that leads to adverse consequences for the individual, families, and society.

Gambling and The Odds

Sources: "21st-Century Card Counter: The Pro's Approach to Beating Today's Blackjack" by Colin Jones Masterclass.com, Apophenia Explained: How to Avoid Apophenia Bias

Prevention - Mitigating Risks

Financial Risks When Gambling A person gambles when they take part in an activity that risks something of monetary value for the chance to win something.  Make sure you avoid these risky behaviors: Borrowing money to gamble Chasing losses and trying to get back lost money by gambling more Making late payments on bills, credit cards, and loans Misusing student loan funds to gamble Putting off good financial practices, like creating a spending plan Downloadable Fact sheets: (courtesy of responsibleplayct)

Free Online Tools That Can Help America Saves – tips on saving money Mint – personal finance app Nerdwallet – budget spreadsheet Quicken – budget calculator Rocket Money- personal finance and budgeting

Gambling and Gaming Awareness Resources

Free online education and support for parents/caregivers and players!! 

Help Is Available

MCCA is the Bettor Choice Provider in Region 5 offering outpatient and short-term inpatient treatment to those struggling with gambling and their families. Visit their webpage here. Gamblers Anonymous is fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem. Visit www.gamblersanonymous.org to locate a meeting near you. Gam-Anon (www.gam-anon.org) is a self-help organization for the spouse, family or close friends of those with a gambling disorder.

About Our Team

The Region 5 Problem Gambling Awareness Team consists of community stakeholders working toward raising awareness around disordered gambling and helping connect those in need to treatment.   Our partners include DMHAS Problem Gambling Services, The CT Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) and treatment providers MCCA, McCall Center for Behavioral Health, and Apex Community Care.

Meet Andre Luis Grigorio! Problem Gambling Prevention Coordinator for Region 5 Andre joined WCTC in June 2023. He comes from a background of experience doing clinical work in behavioral health. This ranges from working as a mental health worker for people with severe depression and/or substance abuse disorders, working as a behavioral therapist helping children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and graduating from the University of Connecticut with a BA in Psychological Sciences. Andre is a big advocate for emotional awareness in each individual’s life and that everyone needs to work together to understand that we are all part of a bigger picture. He is excited to be a part of WCTC as the Prevention Coordinator and assisting those who struggle with gambling, behavioral health disorders, and other problematic behaviors/thoughts that may impede one's daily life. He is also an aspiring body builder.

Please visit the team webpage where you can find out more and download resources to share!

Western CT Coalition is the Regional Behavioral Health Action Organization servicing the 43 towns of DMHAS Region 5. Vist our website Follow us on Facebook @wctcoalition