The Impact Problem Gambling has on the Military, Veterans, Their Families, and Career (AM Session)

Problem gambling affects veterans at twice the rate compared to their civilian counterparts. With increased accessibility to gambling opportunities through the legalization of sports betting, mobile lottery platforms, and casino expansion, veterans must be aware of their increased risk and the services available to help them.

Gambling disorder is a hidden addiction due to its lack of clear, tell-tale signs like those that would show up on a drug screen. Veterans often gamble to cope with trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma. Other addictions, like alcohol use and opioid-use disorder, are often co-occurring when veterans are at risk for problem gambling behavior.

This program will offer an overview of the necessary steps to ensure that problem gambling is at the forefront of new legislation and advocacy measures for veterans. To ensure participants have the tools required to address problem gambling behavior among the veteran population, the presenters will provide education and statistics to help participants draft their solutions for managing problem gambling in their capacity.

Date:

• Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Presenters:

• Jonathan Crandall, BSW
• David Yeager