Title
Special recognition promoting March 2024 as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
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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 2024 as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, creating understanding around National Problem Gambling Awareness Month educates the public and policymakers about the social and financial effectiveness of 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 in all communities, and has a significant societal and economic cost; and
WHEREAS, about 20,000 Lake County residents struggle with a gambling disorder, and adolescents and young adults are at a greater risk than adults; and
WHEREAS, currently, there are over 350 establishments in Lake County with over 2,000 video gaming terminals and a temporary casino. They are partnering with Nicasa Behavioral Health Services to provide screenings to players as part of National Problem Gambling Screening Day; and
WHEREAS, many factors lead to gambling becoming a disorder, but problem gambling is treatable. Treatment is effective at minimizing harm to individuals, business owners, and increasing quality of life; 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 sending a text to GAMB at 833234; and
WHEREAS, Lake County has led the way in funding various social service agencies to help prevent and mitigate the costs of problem gambling.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, that this County Board of Lake County, Illinois recognizes March as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month ...
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