In a groundbreaking move to increase access to support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction, the National Gambling Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NGVSEP) has announced plans to expand its reach and make it easier for people to sign up for their voluntary self-exclusion program. The NGVSEP, which is a voluntary program that allows individuals to ban themselves from participating in gambling activities at participating casinos, has been in operation for several years but has faced criticism for being difficult to access for those in need.
The new initiative, spearheaded by the NGVSEP’s board of directors, aims to make it easier for individuals to sign up for the program by streamlining the registration process and increasing awareness of the program among the general public. The NGVSEP has partnered with several national gambling organizations and advocacy groups to promote the program and help spread the word about the resources available to those struggling with gambling addiction.
“It’s crucial that we make it as easy as possible for individuals to access the support they need to overcome gambling addiction,” said Amanda Thompson, chair of the NGVSEP board of directors. “By expanding access to our self-exclusion program and increasing awareness of the resources available, we hope to help more individuals take the first step towards recovery.”
The NGVSEP’s voluntary self-exclusion program allows individuals to ban themselves from participating in gambling activities at participating casinos for a specified period of time, ranging from six months to five years. Participants in the program receive support and resources to help them overcome their addiction, including counseling and access to treatment programs.
The expansion of the NGVSEP’s program comes at a time when gambling addiction is on the rise in many parts of the country. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately 2 million Americans meet the criteria for pathological gambling, with millions more at risk of developing a gambling addiction. With the increased availability of online gambling and the proliferation of casinos across the country, experts warn that the problem of gambling addiction is only likely to worsen in the coming years.
“We are facing a national crisis when it comes to problem gambling, and it’s crucial that we take action now to address this issue,” said Thompson. “By expanding access to our voluntary self-exclusion program and increasing awareness of the resources available, we hope to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction get the help they need to overcome their addiction and rebuild their lives.”
The NGVSEP’s expansion of its voluntary self-exclusion program is set to roll out in the coming months, with a new website and additional resources being made available to those in need. Individuals interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to visit the NGVSEP website or contact their local gambling addiction support organization for more information.
