Gambling & Gaming Addiction: Reducing Harm for Community Health

Lunch N Learn Webinar

Wednesday, August 5, 2026 - 12:00pm-1:00pm CT via Zoom

Presenter: Sonja Mertz, MLIS, CPP, Community Educator, Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG) 

1 CEU  - Clinical

As access to gambling and its influences on society and communities increases, the need for problem gambling awareness becomes vital to ensure that those communities remain healthy. The typical gambler, now younger and more diverse, can also be affected by mental health issues, substance use disorders, and financial distress. All of which can co-occur with problematic gambling behavior. The blurred lines between gambling and gaming can also cause problems for young people, as well as adults. Social workers are in the pivotal position of recognizing the signs of problem gambling and gaming and providing services to those in need. This presentation will include the signs of problem gambling and gaming, the risk factors for those affected by problem gambling, common co-morbidities, treatment and tools that are available, and the concept of low-risk guidelines and other prevention topics. 

Learning Objectives

1) Participants will be able to identify signs of problem gambling and gaming.

2) Participants will learn about tools and resources that can be used to handle problem gambling and gaming behavior.

3) Participants will learn about gambling and gaming trends, including sports betting, social sports apps, prediction markets, and online gambling.

About the Presenter

Formerly a Prevention Research Specialist with the Minnesota Prevention Resource Center, Sonja Mertz expands MNAPG’s outreach efforts throughout Minnesota and develops programs specifically geared towards youth, young adults, families, educators, and professionals, while also promoting general awareness of gambling issues. Sonja holds a Master of Library and Information Science from St. Catherine University and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Theater Arts and is a Certified Prevention Professional. 

Pricing

FREE for Member: CLICK HERE

$15 for Not-Yet-Members: CLICK HERE