Information sessions to tackle problem gambling

This week is Problem Gambling Prevention Week in Windsor and Essex County and there are a number of public information sessions being held to address the issue. According to the Responsible Gambling Council, 3.4 per cent of Ontarians have a moderate to severe gambling problem, meaning that about 10,200 adults in Windsor and Essex County experience the negative impacts of gambling. Research also shows that about 10 per cent of Ontarians have been negatively affected by someone else’s gambling, so an additional 29,900 people in Windsor and Essex County are estimated to suffer the consequences of another’s gambling.

“Many people think it’s just a matter of time until they’ll hit the jackpot,” said Shelley White, CEO of the RGC in a news release. “The truth is that some people gamble to the point that they damage their finances, relationships and health. Problem gambling can be financially and emotionally devastating for the individual involved and the most important people in their lives.”

The RGC is urging people to recognize the signs of problem gambling and listen to how people feel about their gambling. Warning signs of a gambling problem include:

Feeling guilty, anxious, frustrated ■ or worried about your gambling Thinking or talking more than

■ usual about gambling Gambling more to win back losses

■

Experiencing extreme highs

■ from gambling wins and extreme lows from gambling losses Getting irritated more easily or

■ having less patience when dealing with normal, everyday activities. The RGC is holding seven information sessions, four at Caesars Windsor, two at Breakaway Gaming Centre at 655 Crawford Ave., and one at Paradise Gaming Centre at 2430 Dougall Ave.

The sessions at Caesars Windsor will take place daily from Wednesday through Saturday from 5 to 9 p.m. The sessions at Breakaway Gaming will take place on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

The session at Paradise Gaming Centre will take place Thursday from noon to 3 p.m.

The RGC has a website at knowthesigns.ca with information about the emotional and behavioural signs to watch for. Problem gambling resources in Windsor and Essex County can be accessed the Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Problem Gambling Services at 519-257-5111 ext. 76999 or through ConnexOntario at 1-866-531-2600.