SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) Prevention Strategies have been shown to be effective in the well‐researched area of substance abuse prevention, and are generally used in the absence of evidence‐based programs or practices specific to problem gambling prevention.

Research shows that prevention programs must include strategies in each of the 6 areas (below) if they are going to be effective. The strategies below have been modified slightly from CSAP’s original model to apply to problem gambling prevention.

Information Dissemination
One‐way communication, from the source to the audience, providing accurate information about the nature and extent of problem gambling for individuals, families, and communities.
Example: brochures, posters, presentations

Prevention Education
Two‐way communication and activities that help an individual develop interpersonal skills, clear and purposeful goals and values, self‐control and the ability to build and maintain healthy relationships and make healthy choices.
Example: school‐based multi‐series health curricula

Alternatives
identify and make available alternatives to gambling that can meet the personal needs of the targeted audience in productive, health‐promoting ways.
Example: gambling‐free social events

Community‐Based Processes
Enhances the ability of a community to more effectively mobilize prevention, early intervention and treatment services. Includes assessment of community services and resources, risk/protective factor assessment, community action planning and team building.

Social Policy & Environmental Approaches
Establishes or changes written or unwritten community laws, standards, policies, and/or norms, thereby reducing the incidence and prevalence of gambling problems.
Example: social gaming ordinances

Problem Identification and Referral
Early identification of the gambling problem and referral for assessment and treatment if indicated.
Example: problem gambling helpline services