Welcome to the Local 4 Funds Office Wellbeing Hub.
We're glad you're here!
We're glad you're here!
"Happiness is the highest form of health"
– Dalai Lama
Karen Larsen
Social Worker and Care Coordinator
Is Gambling a Problem?
Gambling is everywhere—from state run lottery games to sports betting to casinos in many states. While gambling may be an occasional diversion for some people, it can quickly turn into a problem for others. The National Council on Problem Gambling (FAQs: What is Problem Gambling? – National Council on Problem Gambling) estimates that 2 million Americans meet the criteria for severe gambling problems and another 5 million meet the criteria for mild to moderate gambling problems. Gambling is also becoming more of an issue for younger people, especially young men. How do you know when it's problem gambling? Some of the signs may include preoccupation with gambling, trying to make up for lost money by betting more, unsuccessful attempts to stop gambling, and conflict with family over gambling.
People with a gambling disorder may experience severe financial hardship, losing their homes, cars and going into significant debt. Relationship problems with family and friends are common. Work may suffer as people are often preoccupied with gambling. People withdrawing from gambling often experience restlessness, irritability, guilt, and shame. There are treatment options for compulsive gambling, including therapy and self-help groups. Our Employee Assistance Program, Lyra Health, can help address gambling issues, whether it is for yourself or a family member. Contact Lyra Health at 844-926-2482 or Lyra Health. Gamblers Anonymous is a self-help group based on the 12-step model. For more information or to find a meeting, click here: Home – Gamblers Anonymous. The National Problem Gambling Hotline connects people to local resources, call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or see About the National Problem Gambling Helpline – National Council on Problem Gambling. If you are affected by someone's gambling problem, GamAnon is a support organization for families and loved ones. They have meetings and information available on their website https://www.gam-anon.org/.
For more information, see:
Gambling – Rutgers Addiction Research Center (RARC)
How gambling affects the brain and who is most vulnerable to addiction
FAQs: What is Problem Gambling? – National Council on Problem Gambling
This Month's Featured Partner
Oshi
Oshi offers virtual care for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders with a team of GI providers, health coaches and dieticians. Their platform includes a mobile app for virtual appointments and messaging with your providers. Oshi can assist you with gastrointestinal issues from the comfort of your own home. It treats hundreds of GI conditions, including GERD, gastritis, Crohn's disease, IBS and more. For more information and how to enroll with Oshi, see https://member.bluecrossma.com/digestive-care (requires sign in to your MyBlue account). Oshi is in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (plan copayments, deductibles and co-insurance apply).
Tips from Lyra
Tips from Lyra
In the spirit of National Wellness Month, take a moment to check out these flashcards from Lyra. They have mental health tips written by Lyra clinicians.
Lyra Health can be reached at 844-926-2482 or Lyra Health.