Problem Gambling Prevention

Gambling is risking something of value on an event that is determined mostly by chance. A person is gambling if he or she puts up something of value, such as money or property, the outcome has an element of chance beyond the person’s control and once the bet is made it is not reversible.

For many people, gambling is enjoyed as a form of entertainment. But for some, gambling can become a serious problem and develop into an addiction.

Problem Gambling refers to any gambling that goes beyond the “normal” bounds of gambling for fun, recreation, or entertainment. Problem Gambling behavior is defined as gambling that damages your mental and physical health, your career/educational activities, and/or your personal relationships, finances, and reputation. People of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds can become problem gamblers.

Prevention: What We Offer

At Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers, Inc. we offer Problem Gambling prevention education programs to the community free of charge and can be geared towards adults or youth. These programs can be provided to agencies, organizations, or schools to educate your staff, students, or clients about the effects of problem gambling and how to prevent it.

In addition, our Problem Gambling Prevention Specialist also utilizes several youth and young adult evidence-informed curricula that are available to be run for your young adults or students at no cost:

  • Smart Bet: a curriculum designed to assist 18-25 year-olds in acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to make healthy choices about whether, when and how much to gamble
  • Risky Business: a six-session gambling prevention intervention for at-risk youth populations
  • Smart Choices: a three session youth program gambling prevention program for middle school students