Title
Special recognition promoting March 2025 as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
Body
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
WHEREAS, Lake County joins Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, the National Council on Problem Gambling, and the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling in promoting March 2025 as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, creating awareness about excessive gambling educates the public and policymakers about the effectiveness of social and financial services available for problem gambling; and
WHEREAS, problem gambling is a public health issue affecting millions of Americans of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds nationwide, and has significant costs for individuals, families, businesses, and communities; and
WHEREAS, about 20,000 Lake County residents are affected by a gambling disorder, and adolescents and young adults are at greater risk; and
WHEREAS, currently, there are over 375 establishments with over 2,250 video gaming terminals, a casino, and online sports wagering available in Lake County; and
WHEREAS, many factors lead to gambling behavior becoming a gambling disorder, but a gambling disorder is preventable and treatable; and
WHEREAS, Lake County has led the way in funding various social service agencies to help prevent and mitigate the costs of problem gambling; and
WHEREAS, Lake County residents are encouraged to reach out for resources, including counseling, treatment, self-help, and support groups by contacting Nicasa at 847-546-6450, calling or texting 211, contacting the state's 24-hour helpline at 800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537), or texting GAMB at 833234.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, by this County Board of Lake County, Illinois that March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Lake County; and
BE IT FURTHER RECOGNIZED that the Lake County Board advocates for responsible policymaking, research, prevention, and treatment of problem gambling, and encourages residents to seek understanding about ...
Click here for full text