Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling

Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling Problem Gambling Treatment, Training, and Awareness ECPG coordinates a Youth Program to improve gambling awareness among teenagers and young adults.

ECPG provides Washington State’s 1-800-Helpline service, helping callers throughout the region connect with available gambling treatment programs. ECPG administers a regional training program for counselors interested in providing problem gamblers and their loved ones with out-patient treatment services. ECPG supports outpatient treatment and inpatient treatment for problem gamblers (Washington St

ate residents) in extreme crisis. ECPG conducts public awareness presentations for a variety of groups, including businesses, social service organizations, senior citizens groups, financial organizations, colleges and universities, and many others. ECPG works with the gambling and casino industry to promote Responsible Gaming Programs and offers a Gaming Industry Responsible Gaming Certification program in Washington State. ECPG works collaboratively with Research Groups to generate reliable data on compulsive gambling in our service area. ECPG functions as a central point of contact for current and emerging information on gambling addiction. ECPG is an affiliate of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). Its representatives have served on the NCPG Board of Directors, the Affiliates Committee, and many other NCPG bodies.

During National Minority Health Month, we are reminded that health outcomes are shaped by more than individual behavior....
04/21/2026

During National Minority Health Month, we are reminded that health outcomes are shaped by more than individual behavior.

Gambling harm is influenced by environment, stress, and access. In many communities, economic pressure, targeted advertising, and limited access to care can increase risk. For some, gambling becomes a way to cope with stress or a perceived path toward financial stability.

Research also shows that risk can shift across generations, particularly in immigrant communities, where exposure, expectations, and access to support systems change over time.

Understanding these factors is essential to building effective prevention and recovery efforts.

Read the full blog to explore how these issues intersect: https://www.evergreencpg.org/news/national-minority-health-month-equity-access-and-gambling-harm-prevention/

If you have questions about gambling behaviors for yourself or someone you care about, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day.

Call, text, or chat with the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-547-6133, or visit evergreencpg.org to connect with support statewide.

April is National Minority Health Month, a time to recognize the disparities that impact health outcomes across communit...
04/14/2026

April is National Minority Health Month, a time to recognize the disparities that impact health outcomes across communities.

In gambling harm prevention, these disparities are clear. Research shows that historically marginalized racial and ethnic groups experience higher rates of gambling and problem gambling yet are less likely to access treatment services such as inpatient care or helplines.

This gap reflects systemic barriers including stigma, lack of culturally responsive care, and limited awareness of available resources.

At ECPG, we are committed to expanding access, reducing stigma, and ensuring that support reaches all communities.

Read the full blog to learn more: https://www.evergreencpg.org/news/national-minority-health-month-equity-access-and-gambling-harm-prevention/

If you have questions about gambling behaviors for yourself or someone you care about, free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day.

Call, text, or chat with the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling’s 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-547-6133, or visit evergreencpg.org to connect with support statewide.

Thank you to Oregon Health Authority and Florida Council On Compulsive Gambling for your insights!

UPCOMING EVENTMany Pathways, One Purpose: Culturally Grounded Healing for Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Gambling D...
04/14/2026

UPCOMING EVENT
Many Pathways, One Purpose: Culturally Grounded Healing for Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Gambling Disorder in BIPOC Communities

The Show Me Foundation is hosting this upcoming two-day event at Tabor 100 in Tukwila, WA, focused on culturally grounded approaches to prevention and care. ECPG’s Deputy Director, Tana Russell will be presenting on problem gambling resources, along with many other incredible presenters and topics.

May 18–19, 2026

Free to attend, with CE credits available.

Learn more and attend: evergreencpg.org/attend/show-me-foundation-many-pathways-one-purpose/

Four teams left. The pressure is rising.The Final Four is where legends are made and brackets are long gone. Every posse...
04/04/2026

Four teams left. The pressure is rising.

The Final Four is where legends are made and brackets are long gone. Every possession feels bigger. Every shot matters.

As the stakes get higher, it is a good time to check in with yourself. Is it still fun?

If betting feels like full court pressure or losses feel like blocked shots at the rim, take a step back. The excitement of the game should not turn into financial stress.

Follow this game plan:
-Stick to your budget.
-Do not chase losses.
-Remember the best wins happen on the court.

Read more: https://www.evergreencpg.org/news/brackets-buzzer-beaters-and-keeping-it-fun/

If you need support, here is your three-point shot:
1 – 1.800.547.6133
2 – Chat
3 – Text

Free and confidential help is available 24/7 across Washington.

Enjoy the Final Four with friends.

Keep It Fun.

PGAM may be ending. Awareness does not.Problem Gambling Awareness Month shines a spotlight on prevention, education, and...
03/27/2026

PGAM may be ending. Awareness does not.

Problem Gambling Awareness Month shines a spotlight on prevention, education, and support, but this work continues year-round. Across Washington, individuals and families deserve access to trusted resources, informed conversations, and help when they need it.

Awareness can protect finances, relationships, mental health, and future goals.

It’s Your Life, It’s Your Tomorrow.

Learn more: www.evergreencpg.org/pgam-2026/
Support is available 24/7 at 1-800-547-6133.

It's Major League Baseball's Opening Day! There will be a lot of buzz as players take the field, first pitches are made,...
03/26/2026

It's Major League Baseball's Opening Day! There will be a lot of buzz as players take the field, first pitches are made, and regular season stats start rolling in. Remember, if you bet on sports to have a plan, set limits, and ask for help if it stops being fun. Learn more at KeepItFunWA.org or call our 24/7 Washington State Helpline at 1-800-547-6133.

Awareness grows stronger when we build it together.Young people need clear, informed conversations about gaming, betting...
03/25/2026

Awareness grows stronger when we build it together.

Young people need clear, informed conversations about gaming, betting, and risk. Adult allies can help by being safe, credible guides. Providers and counselors help recognize concerns early and connect youth and families to support.

As Problem Gambling Awareness Month winds down, the need for awareness does not. Prevention continues in everyday conversations, informed choices, and communities that know how to respond.

Learn more about how you can make a difference: https://www.evergreencpg.org/pgam-2026-landing-page/

Support is available 24/7 at 1-800-547-6133.

Today, Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling was featured on New Day NW with host Kelly Hanson alongside Executive Direc...
03/24/2026

Today, Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling was featured on New Day NW with host Kelly Hanson alongside Executive Director Rebecca George of the Washington Indian Gaming Association and attorney Dave Malone of Miller Malone & Tellefson law firm, for an important conversation about prediction markets.

The discussion explored what prediction markets are, questions around whether they function more like investing, trading, or gambling, legal and regulatory concerns in Washington State, possible risks to consumers, and the broader implications for tribal sovereignty and public policy.

Thank you to Kelly Hanson and the New Day Northwest team for the opportunity.

Watch the segment here: https://www.king5.com/video/sponsor-story/inside-the-boom-of-predictive-gambling-markets-new-day-nw/281-872421c2-fa35-4c57-83d3-75a56417877b

Swipe through for photos from the set.




Prevention starts with informed communities.During National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, there are simple ways to t...
03/20/2026

Prevention starts with informed communities.

During National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, there are simple ways to take action:
• Learn the signs
• Explore prevention resources
• Read our blog
• Listen to our podcasts
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Attend a community event

When you are informed, you are empowered to make the right choices.
Get involved.

https://www.evergreencpg.org/pgam-2026/

Need support? Call, text, or chat 24/7 at 1-800-547-6133.

Prevention requires early recognition.For many youth, warning signs may appear as social anxiety that shows up offline, ...
03/18/2026

Prevention requires early recognition.

For many youth, warning signs may appear as social anxiety that shows up offline, secrecy about what games they play or what they are spending, difficulty focusing on school but the ability to game for hours, or intense emotional reactions tied to in-game losses or sports outcomes.

As a counselor, behavioral health provider, or educator, you may already be addressing these downstream effects. What is often missing is a clear, developmentally appropriate framework for recognizing gambling-related risk and knowing when and how to intervene.

Helpful practices include:
• Viewing gambling and gaming behaviors within a broader mental health context
• Asking open-ended, curiosity-driven questions without labeling
• Understanding what is developmentally typical versus concerning
• Having clear referral pathways for youth and Inspirations For Youth and Families
When gambling is not the presenting issue, naming it as a possible contributing factor can reduce shame and support clearer assessment.

Early recognition, informed conversation, and appropriate referrals can help.

Free and confidential support is available 24/7 at 1-800-547-6133.
Check out more tools, tips, and resources here:
www.empower-inspire.org

College tourney season tips off March 17, and the energy is high.More games in a shorter stretch means more buzzer beate...
03/18/2026

College tourney season tips off March 17, and the energy is high.

More games in a shorter stretch means more buzzer beaters, more upsets, and more chances to jump into the action. That is what makes this time of year so much fun.

But more games can also mean more betting.

If betting starts to feel like full court pressure instead of fun, it may be time to call a timeout. If losses feel like blocked shots and the bets keep adding up, the stress can build fast.

Full court pressure belongs on the court, not in your finances.

Here are some tips:

*Set a tournament budget.
*Avoid chasing losses.
*Take a break if it stops feeling fun.

Read more:
evergreencpg.org/news/brackets-buzzer-beaters-and-keeping-it-fun/

If time is ticking, here is your three-point shot:

1 – Call
2 – Chat
3 – Text

Free and confidential support is available 24/7 in Washington.

Learn more at keepitfunwa.org

Cheer loud. Enjoy the games with friends.

Keep It Fun.

How does the developing brain influence decision-making around risk and reward?During Brain Awareness Week, we’re highli...
03/16/2026

How does the developing brain influence decision-making around risk and reward?

During Brain Awareness Week, we’re highlighting what neuroscience tells us about gambling and youth development. Research shows that adolescents experience heightened reward sensitivity while the areas responsible for impulse control and long-term planning are still maturing.

Understanding how the brain responds to uncertainty and reinforcement helps shift the conversation from willpower to awareness.

Early awareness supports prevention. And prevention supports healthier outcomes.

Read our latest blog to learn more:
https://www.evergreencpg.org/news/understanding-the-brain-why-early-awareness-matters-for-youth-and-gambling/

If you have questions about gambling behaviors for yourself or someone you care about, call, text, or chat with our free and confidential 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-547-6133, or visit evergreencpg.org.

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1511 State Avenue NE
Olympia, WA
98506

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

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