Program Description
Event Details
Gambling disorder – frequently referred to as “gambling addiction” ”problem gambling” or “compulsive gambling”– denotes an almost uncontrollable urge to gamble, despite the consequences it has on one’s health, happiness, or financial security.
Approximately 1 percent of the adult population in the United States has a severe gambling problem. Some 4-5% of youth, ages 12-17 meet one or more of criteria for having a gambling problem. In New Jersey, an estimated 2.8% of New Jersey adults (194,596) are believed to manifest a gambling problem, whether it be while casino gambling in Atlantic City or betting on fantasy sports from the comfort of one’s home.
Here to shed light on the issue is Joe Kane, a Prevention Specialist with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), who speaks to groups throughout the state on problem gambling awareness. CCGNJ has helped countless people recover from disordered gambling since its inception. By facilitating access to various programs, services, and other resources, it works to educate the public about this disorder and provide aid and support to anyone who needs it.
Joe will discuss the sizable growth of gambling in NJ since the legalization of sports gambling in 2018, what the Council offers to those struggling with a gambling problem, and will also share his personal journey as a compulsive gambler in recovery. He will discuss the warning signs of the problem, and how it often goes undiscovered by family and friends as the compulsive gambler will often lie and manipulate others, and go to great lengths to conceal the addiction from friends and family.
Joe, a Livingston resident, worked on Wall Street for 15 years followed by a successful time in the mortgage industry. Joe has been with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey since the beginning of 2022 and has enjoyed sharing his story to the various groups he meets with.
The talk is open to all and no registration is required.