Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM): Embracing Change in Bermuda’s Gambling Sector

Each March, Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) serves as a critical opportunity to shine a light on the risks of gambling addiction, promote resources for those in need, and foster community conversations around responsible gaming.

The gambling industry is undergoing rapid technological transformation. With the rise of online casinos, mobile betting apps, activities akin to gambling and digital payment methods, access to gambling is easier—and more discreet—than ever before. These innovations heighten the risk of problem gambling and make it essential for organizations like the Bermuda Problem Gaming Council to stay ahead of the curve.

Keeping pace with technological change is vital to effectively address the challenges of modern gambling. This includes understanding emerging trends, developing digital outreach strategies, and advocating for responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion programs or real-time spending limits within new platforms. By leveraging technology, the Council can expand its reach, provide timely support, and ensure its messaging resonates with today’s audiences.

A pillar of PGAM is promoting access to problem gaming screening tools. Brief screens can help people decide whether to seek formal evaluation of their gambling behavior. The 3-item BBGS is based on the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) criteria for Gambling Disorder. Click here to access the BBGS online. Versions of the screeners exist in various languages including Spanish and Portuguese. The Bermuda Problem Gaming Council has physical pamphlets available up on request.