CMHA Peel Dufferin recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month 

Mar 7, 2025

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Each March, CMHA recognizes Problem Gambling Awareness Month—an essential initiative to raise public awareness about the dangers associated with gambling. This campaign focuses on prevention, treatment, referral, and recovery services. Given the dramatic rise in online gambling accessibility, particularly in poker and sports betting, understanding the signs and symptoms of recreational versus problem gambling is increasingly vital.

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to the brain’s reward system, surges in large amounts during gambling activities, similar to substance use such as drugs or alcohol. The brain learns which behaviors trigger dopamine release and pursues them, potentially leading to dependency, just as with substances. While many engage in gambling without adverse effects, for some, it can lead to significant problems.

People experiencing problem gambling often report: 

• Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired level of excitement 
• Being restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling 
• Feeling preoccupied with thoughts of gambling 
• Gambling when feeling distressed to cope with difficult emotions.  

Emerging Statistics in Ontario

• In the fiscal year 2023-2024, Ontarians wagered an impressive $63 billion across various gambling platforms, marking a substantial 78% increase from the previous year. Total gaming revenue reached $2.4 billion, up 72% from the previous fiscal year. (​igamingontario.ca​)
• The number of active player accounts rose to 1.3 million in the final quarter of the 2023-2024 fiscal year, highlighting a growing interest and participation in online gambling. (​globalnews.ca)
• Revenue from online casino games was notably high, contributing $1.8 billion to the total gaming revenue, with significant contributions also coming from betting and peer-to-peer poker​. (sbcamericas.com)

For more detailed statistics and insights into Ontario’s online gambling market and to learn about the risks and prevention strategies for problem gambling, visit the official iGaming Ontario report.

With the continued expansion of online gambling, the importance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month has never been more critical. For those seeking help or more information on managing gambling habits, visit GamblingGuidelines.ca or explore tools like the anonymous, self-assessment options available online.

If you are concerned for yourself or someone you love, CMHA Peel Dufferin offers various programs and services tailored to assist those with addiction concerns. These include interventions designed to help individuals understand their behaviors and manage their impulses effectively.

Reach out for support:

• Learn more about our programs and services
• Register for Services
• Call: 905-451-2123 or 1-877-451-2123
• E-mail: referrals@cmhapeel.ca