Webinar on Problem Gambling: Risks, Realities, and Responses
March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month when we promote public understanding of the risks and realities of gambling addiction and promoting access to help and support. As gambling becomes more accessible through mobile apps, sports betting, and online markets, it’s never been more crucial for crisis line workers, behavioral health professionals, and community navigation professionals to recognize the signs of problem gambling so they can assist people in need.
On March 26, 2026 at 1pm Eastern, iCarol is pleased to host a free webinar, “Problem Gambling 101: Risks, Realities, & Responses,” presented by Jenna Hotaling, Training Manager at the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).
About the Webinar
This live session will provide a practical overview of problem gambling and its growing relevance in today’s rapidly evolving gambling landscape. Participants will learn how to:
- Define problem gambling and identify the warning signs
- Understand current gambling trends, including the expansion of sports betting and emerging prediction markets
- Explore practical strategies for seeking help and supporting others
- Access key resources for individuals experiencing problem gambling
Whether you work for a helpline, in behavioral health, or in a community setting, this session will help you better recognize harmful gambling behaviors, engage in meaningful conversations with those impacted, and connect them with the right supports and treatment pathways.
Why Training on Problem Gambling is Needed
Problem gambling can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or income. With the rapid growth of sports betting and online gambling platforms, more people are being exposed to high-risk gambling opportunities without realizing the potential for harm.
Frontline professionals, such as those answering crisis hotlines, play a crucial role in early identification and intervention. By understanding the warning signs—such as financial strain, mood swings, secrecy, or increased time spent gambling—these professionals can help open compassionate, stigma-free conversations and guide individuals toward recovery resources.
Meet Our Presenter
Jenna Hotaling is the Training Manager at the National Council on Problem Gambling. She develops and delivers training programs that strengthen the capacity of professionals and communities to respond effectively to gambling-related harm. With over five years of experience in the problem gambling field, Jenna previously led outreach and education initiatives at the Finger Lakes Problem Gambling Resource Center in New York. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).