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Mental Health Update

April 6, 2020
MH Update Archives
Mental Health Update

MH Update – 4/6/20 – Let’s Talk Problem Gambling Prevention

One of the greatest concerns regarding Coronavirus is the impact of isolation on mental health. At MHANYS, we are constantly updating our web page at www.mhanys.org  to respond to many concerns that have been expressed.

Unfortunately, we have heard anecdotally about the increases in addiction disorders. One area that has drawn our concern is specific to problem gambling.   The combination of social anxiety, social isolation, and economic uncertainty can lead to an increase in gambling. While traditional sports betting is not available, there are virtual sports events and on-line gambling that cause great concern.

Listed below is a resource list and guidance for helping to respond to the needs of problem gamblers during this crisis.

– Glenn Liebman, CEO 
“There are many harsh lessons to be learned from the gambling experience,
but the harshest one of all is the difference between having Fun and being Smart.”

– Hunter S. Thompson
What can you do to help prevent youth gambling?
A few weeks ago, we released part 1 of our webinar series on youth and problem gambling in collaboration with the NY Council on Problem Gambling.  Part 2 focuses on preventing underage gambling through education in schools and family conversations.

In “Mental Health Education and Problem Gambling:  Addressing the Problem”, Amy Molloy, Director of MHANYS School Mental Health Resource and Training Center, and Jaime Costello, Director of Bureau of Prevention and Training at NY Council on Problem Gambling, explore strategies to prevent youth gambling and provide resources for schools and families.
For School Staff
Underage & Problem Gambling Awareness in Education Settings
Need help bringing awareness of problem gambling to your school community? This toolkit developed by the NY Council on Problem Gambling provides resources for schools to education both students and families.  Additional resources for administrators and educators helps everyone to understand their unique role in preventing underage gambling.
For Families & Caregivers
Talk2Kids
One simple, effective way to prevent underage gambling is to talk with kids. Talk2Kids.org includes fact sheets and videos for parents showing how to have these difficult conversations with children.
Website
Don’t Bet Yet
“Go Away, Monster!” is a story and video for young children whose families have been impacted by problem gambling.  These resources can be used by family members or professionals to help talk with youth.
Website
Additional Resources
Gambling is connected to mental health. Gambling can become an addiction, and it is a risk factor for mental health problems.  MHANYS School Mental Health Resource and Training Center has created a webpage devoted to problem gambling and underage gambling, including webinars, fact sheet and online resources.  This page will be updated regularly so return often for more information!
The School Mental Health Resource and Training Center is a project of Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. with funding from the New York State Legislature and Executive.

194 Washington Ave. Suite 415
Albany, NY 12210
United States

schools@mhanys.org ~ (518)434-0439