Each March, organizations across the nation come together to observe Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), a grassroots public health campaign aimed at increasing understanding of gambling-related harm and promoting prevention, treatment and recovery resources. In 2026, the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG) played a central role in advancing these goals statewide, aligning its efforts with the national theme of “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures.”
Throughout the month, MNAPG focused on expanding public conversation around sweepstakes casinos, sports betting and prediction markets, all of which continue to grow in visibility and accessibility. Educational messaging highlighted the increased risks associated with mobile gambling apps, pervasive advertising and the normalization of betting tied to major sporting events.
MNAPG staff delivered customized in-person and virtual presentations during PGAM to students, educators, healthcare professionals and community organizations. These sessions covered emerging gambling markets, youth prevention strategies and the convergence of gaming and gambling, equipping communities with practical tools to recognize warning signs and reduce stigma.
A major emphasis of PGAM 2026 in Minnesota was youth gambling prevention. MNAPG emphasized the importance of early intervention, urging families and schools to discuss gambling risks openly and proactively. Media outreach during March reinforced that earlier exposure increases the likelihood of long-term harm, particularly for young people navigating digital environments where gambling-like features are commonplace. MNAPG was pleased that many media outlets featured its executive director to discuss troubling trends among youth and young adults and the growing need for prevention efforts.
MNAPG also re-aired its “Elephant in the Room” PSA on select streaming services. The campaign generated encouraging engagement, with many viewers visiting the organization’s website for additional information and resources.
Each year, MNAPG promotes National Gambling Disorder Screening Day on the second Tuesday in March, encouraging healthcare and behavioral health providers to screen for gambling disorder and connect individuals to appropriate support services. This effort aligns with national best practices and reinforces that gambling disorder is a treatable condition deserving of routine screening.
PGAM 2026 was formally recognized at the state level, with Governor Tim Walz proclaiming March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Minnesota. MNAPG continues to advocate for Minnesota to include gambling addiction within its prevention education efforts for middle and high school students.
MNAPG’s collaboration with government agencies, nonprofit partners and media outlets amplified consistent messaging across the state and helped ensure Minnesotans knew where to turn for help. Public communications regularly highlighted confidential, no-cost resources, including the Minnesota Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-333-HOPE), free financial counseling services and subscriptions to Gamban, a gambling site-blocking tool.
PGAM 2026 reinforced MNAPG’s mission to build informed, compassionate communities that understand gambling-related harm and support recovery. By aligning education, youth prevention, provider engagement and cross-sector partnerships, MNAPG is helping lay the groundwork for stronger futures for individuals, families and communities.
Free Problem Gambling Resources
- Minnesota Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-333-HOPE
- Free financial counseling through LSS Financial Counseling
- Free Gamban subscriptions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM)?
PGAM is a grassroots public health campaign observed each March aimed at increasing understanding of gambling-related harm and promoting prevention, treatment, and recovery resources nationwide.
What was the theme for PGAM 2026?
The national theme for Problem Gambling Awareness Month in 2026 was “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures.”
How does MNAPG support youth gambling prevention?
MNAPG emphasizes early intervention, delivers customized presentations to students and educators, and advocates for including gambling addiction within state prevention education efforts for middle and high school students.