- There is new gambling help geared towards neurodivergent people.
- The NCPG has named Heather L. Maurer their new executive director.
- The New Jersey 1-800-GAMBLER is facing backlash.
LAS VEGAS – There have been some impactful updates and critiques to the gambling awareness/problem gambling world that are being brought to light as of late.
This includes new problem gambling material that is hyper focused on neurodivergent people, a new executive director for the National Council On Problem Gambling, and backlash hitting the New Jersey 1-800-GAMBLER hotline.
GambleAware Launches New Material For Neurodivergent Community
The neurodivergent community, which includes those dealing with conditions such as autism, ADHD, Tourette syndrome, and dyslexia, etc. will now be able to ask for help with problem gambling and get help with material made for them, thanks to GambleAware.
Their new problem gambling material for legal sports betting includes having specialists on call to improve the support for those dealing with any of the above conditions and get tailored help.
Ann Hargrave, the CEO of GambleAware, had this to say about the new report and resources being made available:
“The new report highlights the complex link between neurodivergence and gambling. Characteristics of neurodivergence like impulsivity, hyperfocus, social difficulties, and a need for stimulation drive gambling behaviour and increase harms, while stigma, shame, and lack of tailored support further isolate neurodivergent people and make it harder for them to seek help.”
“The resources we have produced are designed to support therapists and practitioners working with clients who experience both gambling harms and neurodivergence. They address a critical evidence gap in understanding how gambling harms affect neurodivergent people and how treatment can be tailored most effectively to ensure it is as effective as possible.”
Heather L. Maurer Named Executive Director Of NCPG
Effective January 7, 2026, Heather L. Maurer will begin her tenure as Executive Director of the NCPG.
Maurer is more than experienced in leadership with over 25 years under her belt in all related fields, such as policy, nonprofit, and health, fitting right in line with her new problem gambling role.
“I’m honored to join NCPG and build on its strong legacy of leadership in addressing gambling-related harm,” said Maurer. “I look forward to working alongside NCPG’s dedicated team, Board of Directors, members, and partners to expand awareness, strengthen prevention and treatment systems, and ensure that problem gambling is fully recognized within the public health framework.”
Garden State Facing Backlash For 1-800-GAMBLER Questionnaire
The 1-800-GAMBLER hotline is facing some backlash as they are using their services for data extraction and questionnaires for those calling in asking for help. In some cases, people calling in for help are met with surveys before they’re able to receive any help.
With that, 80% of calls made to the hotline were cut to less than a one minute run time.
