New Hampshire Council on Problem Gambling

10/26/2026

Gambling can sometimes become a way to escape stress, anxiety, loneliness, or other difficult emotions. While it may offer temporary distraction or relief, relying on gambling to cope can contribute to increased emotional distress, financial difficulties, and challenges in everyday life.

Recognizing when gambling is being used as an emotional outlet is an important step toward developing healthier coping strategies. Connecting with supportive people, practicing stress management, and seeking professional guidance can help create more sustainable ways to navigate difficult emotions.

You don’t have to manage everything on your own. Support is available, and reaching out can be the first step toward meaningful change.

For free, confidential gambling support, call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). Available 24/7.

10/21/2026

10/20/2026

"Years ago, I attended my first meeting of Gamblers Anonymous in the
basement of a school. My initial response was one of shock and surprise at the laughter, joking and friendship on display. My life was falling apart and all these people (a dozen) were happily engaged in conversation. I anticipated doom and gloom and wondered if I was in the right place. Today, I am one of those, laughing and joking and rightly so. Life is good today. I learned early if I listened, followed suggestions and didn’t bet, my life would get better. That G.A. promise has stood the test of time. I can handle the disappointments life may throw my way without escaping to gamble. I’ll continue to battle my addiction on a daily basis, laughing and
joking along the way." -Anonymous

10/19/2026

A recent article from NPR sheds light on how more kids each day are gambling, and how most parents miss the signs. Kim Freudenberg, a longtime teacher in San Francisco, knew to warn her sons about activities that could harm them (drinking, drugs, unsafe driving, etc.) but didn’t realize that gambling was one of those things. After her eldest son dropped out of college at 19 and started stealing money to pay for his debts, she discovered he had been gambling since age 11. Learn more about youth gambling by reading the article, downloading the guide, or hear more parent stories from Parents Standing Together — links in the comments.

10/19/2026

Serving your country does not make someone immune to addiction.

Problem gambling can be difficult to recognize, especially when stress, stigma, or other challenges make it harder to talk about what is happening.

That is why awareness within military and veteran communities matters. The more openly we talk about gambling-related harm, the easier it becomes to recognize the signs and connect people with support.

🌐svpgc.org

10/15/2026

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Did you know the Division on Addiction has educational materials developed specifically for emerging adults navigating gambling opportunities? Check out our materials that provide emerging adults, and professionals working with them, with information on how to reduce harm. https://www.divisiononaddiction.org/outreach-resources/gdsd/toolkit/materials-for-emerging-adults/

10/13/2026

When we only look at dollars lost, we can miss the bigger picture.

Gambling-related harm can show up in the choices someone is making, the stress they are carrying, and the ways gambling begins to take up more space in everyday life.

Knowing the odds also means knowing that harm is not defined by one number.

10/10/2026

It’s Happening Right in Front of Us.

Gambling is being normalized in everyday moments.

When betting ads are everywhere, gambling starts to feel normal. Talk to your kids and know the signs of addiction.

10/07/2026

What if the problem isn’t how much you’re gambling, but how much space gambling is taking up in your head? 🧐🧠

Thinking about the next bet. Checking scores. Chasing a loss. Planning when you can gamble again. Promising yourself you’ll cut back… and then finding yourself right back at it.

You might still be going to work. Paying your bills. Showing up for your family. From the outside, everything may look completely fine.

But if gambling is taking up more mental space than you want it to, that’s worth paying attention to. 💙

10/06/2026

Sports betting: fun until it isn’t. 🫠

If you’re checking odds before the game even starts, chasing that last loss, dropping money you said you wouldn’t, or thinking about your next bet 24/7… it might be running the show more than you realize.

If betting is messing with your money, your mood, your relationships, or your peace of mind, that’s enough reason to reach out.

No judgment or lectures. Just support. We’re here 📲 603-724-1605