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Pennsylvania Lottery Encourages Players Who Need Help To Take Advantage of Problem Gambling Services

3/2/2020
Middletown, PA – In observance of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Lottery today reminded players and their families to recognize the warning signs of a gambling problem and to call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or visit www.pacouncil.com for free, confidential help. These resources, which include an online 24-hour chat service, are operated by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, which is funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery.
 
“We want to make sure that all of our players always play responsibly. That means playing within your financial means and only for entertainment,” said Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko. “If you or someone you care about has a gambling problem, we want to make sure that you find the help that you need.”
 
Gambling can be considered problematic when it causes financial hardship, harms relationships with friends or loved ones, interferes with work, school or other activities, or impacts physical or mental health.
 
Warning signs of a compulsive gambling problem include a growing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, “chasing” losses, restlessness or irritability when trying to stop, and an inability to stop despite negative consequences. Other warning signs include trying to hide or lying about gambling, using gambling as an escape and feeling angry or depressed after gambling.
 
“We know that gambling addiction is a real concern, so for some people that means not playing at all,” Svitko added. “Because our players must be 18 or older, we also strongly discourage adults from giving lottery games to children.”
 
The Pennsylvania Lottery’s “Please Play Responsibly” message is visible in all aspects of its consumer marketing and advertising; also appearing on items such as game tickets, live televised drawings, media materials, social media and the Lottery’s website.
 
To learn more about the warning signs of problem gambling and find out about available services, visit the Lottery’s website: Please Play the PA Lottery Responsibly.
 

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About Us: The Pennsylvania Lottery remains the only state lottery to direct all proceeds to programs that benefit older residents. Since ticket sales began in 1972, it has contributed more than $30 billion to fund property tax and rent rebates, transportation, care services, prescription assistance, and local services including senior centers and meals.

Visit the Winners and Benefits pages at palottery.com to review how much money each county receives in Lottery prizes and funding to benefit older Pennsylvanians.

Players must be 18 or older. Please play responsibly. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) for help with a compulsive gambling problem.

Visit palottery.com for winning numbers, rules, chances of winning, and to join the VIP Players Club to play online or enter for second chances to win. Install our Official App, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @PALottery. Use the hashtag #palottery to share your messages with us.
 

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