Florida Gaming Control Commission Marks March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Key Highlights:
- Helpline calls tied to online sports betting in Florida more than doubled YoY
- FGCC promotes Playwise 24/7 support for Floridians at risk
- Gambling Disorder Screening Day on March 10 encourages early intervention
- March Madness increases risks for vulnerable gamblers across the state
Helpline calls tied to online sports betting in Florida have more than doubled in the past year, and with March Madness approaching, experts warn that vulnerable individuals may be at heightened risk.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) is using Problem Gambling Awareness Month to ensure that Floridians struggling with gambling harm know help is available.
“Raising awareness is critical,” said FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer. “We want residents to know that help is close at hand and that early intervention can make a real difference.”
Playwise: 24/7 Support for Those in Need
At the heart of FGCC’s campaign is Playwise, a bilingual, state-funded support service providing confidential counseling, referrals, and guidance 24/7. Residents can reach trained counselors at 833-PLAYWISE or visit playwise.org.
For many, the service is a lifeline. “I was betting more than I realized, and it started to take over my life,” said one caller, who asked to remain anonymous. “Calling Playwise was the first step toward getting my finances and my family back on track.”
Problem gambling affects people of all ages and backgrounds and often causes emotional distress, strained relationships, and job loss.
Gambling Disorder Screening Day
March 10 marks Gambling Disorder Screening Day, a nationwide initiative promoted by the FGCC.
Residents concerned about their gambling, or that of a loved one, are encouraged to use Playwise’s online screening tools or call the helpline as a first step toward recovery.
Legal Gaming in Florida
The FGCC reminds residents that slot machines are only legal in licensed facilities.
In January, Florida law enforcement seized 231 illegal lot machines in a Lake County gambling raid.
Florida has eight licensed pari-mutuel locations in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, plus select venues operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
Playing at unlicensed locations violates state law. A full map of authorized gaming locations is available at FLGaming.gov/locations.
Rising Demand Highlights Urgency
Support services in Florida have seen a dramatic increase. The Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling (FCCG) reports that contacts to its 888-ADMIT-IT Helpline linked to online sports betting rose 138% between 2023 and 2024, from 589 to 1,355.
The impact can be severe. 13% of callers reported losses exceeding $200,000, 23% lost between $50,000 and $200,000, and 25% reported suicidal thoughts. Family conflict was cited in 63% of cases. Still, the helpline proves effective: 93% of help-seekers reduced their gambling after reaching out.
“Seeing someone on the edge finally take action is powerful,” said a counselor at the FCCG. “Even small steps such as calling, opening up, or using the online tools can be life-changing.”
March Madness: A High-Risk Period
The timing of Problem Gambling Awareness Month is deliberate. The NCAA Tournament, running March 15 to April 6, is one of the most heavily wagered sporting events in the United States.
Experts warn that the combination of fast-paced games, aggressive advertising, and easy mobile access can trigger relapses and intensify compulsive behavior among those in recovery.
A Statewide Coalition Steps Up
FGCC’s campaign is part of a coordinated statewide effort.
The FCCG’s 2025 Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) partnerships include Seminole Gaming, Hard Rock Bet, Calder Casino, Resorts World Bimini, and other commercial operators. Civic partners include the City of Belleair Bluffs, City of Palm Beach Gardens, and the Town of Juno Beach.
Together, these stakeholders run awareness campaigns with employees and patrons, host community proclamations, and direct residents to the helpline throughout March.
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