Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/08/2017 -- Although most known for helping those in need with problems betting for sports in Atlantic City, this May, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) spent the previous month bringing awareness to mental health issues in what is known as Mental Health Awareness Month.

Since 1949, Mental Health America and their affiliates throughout the country, like CCGNJ, have observed May as Mental Health Awareness Month by reaching out to as many people as possible through the use of local events and media. All organizations are welcome to join promoting the issues surrounding mental health and how serious they can be.

"We are committed to helping promote awareness for those dealing with a mental illness," stated Neva Pryor, Executive Director of the CCGNJ.

It is important that people are knowledgeable about behaviors that strengthen the chance of developing a mental illness or are dealing with a mental health issue themselves. These behaviors include activities such as drug misuse, risky sex (unprotected, under the influence, etc.), internet addiction, excessive or compulsive spending and gambling addiction. Some of these behaviors might not seem as bad when compared to other illegal activities, but that is what allows them to go unchallenged for too long.

One of the goals is to help people and communities become more aware of the risks that behaviors like these can bring on. If people can recognize warning signs earlier, they can seek help before it's too late. For those experiencing mental health issues that manifest itself into gambling behaviors such as; sports gambling in Atlantic City, or vice versa, who are seeking information on help recovering, the CCGNJ is a valuable resource. Their hotline is available 24/7 at 800-GAMBLER, and they can be contacted online at http://www.800gambler.org.

About The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to helping individuals seek help for their disordered gambling problem, and for concerned friends and loved ones to confidentially express their concerns about someone close to them. Their 24/7 hotline is 800-GAMBLER. The Council also works to train professionals in the fields of gambling addiction and recovery.

For more information, please visit http://www.800gambler.org.