What is problem gambling?

Problem gambling is gambling to the extent that it causes emotional, family, legal, financial or other problems for the gambler and the people around the gambler. Problem gambling can get worse over time, and gambling problems can range from mild to severe. A problem gambler can be male, female, young, middle-aged, older adult, wealthy, poor, and any individual from any racial/ethnic origin.

What are the signs of problem gambling?

When people have a problem with gambling, many times they feel like they need to bet more money more frequently, feel irritated when they try to stop, and think that they can “chase” their losses to recover money. This can lead to more gambling, despite financial loss, and the loss of trust of friends and loved ones.

Quick Assessment for Compulsive Gambling:

Have you ever lied to anyone about your gambling activities or how much you have lost?
Have you ever bet more than you wanted or bet more to cover losses?

If you answered “yes” to either of those questions, you may have a gambling problem.

The Kansas Lottery Cares

The Kansas Lottery supports problem gambling education and treatment through the Problem Gambling Grant Fund. The Kansas Legislature established the fund with annual contributions of $20,000 from the Bingo Regulation Fund and $80,000 from the State Gaming Revenues Fund, which is funded by the Kansas Lottery. These contributions are made at the beginning of each fiscal year, before any other distributions take place. The Problem Gambling Grant Fund underwrites the Problem Gambling HelpLine.

Help is Available

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. If you live in Kansas, just call the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline. The HelpLine is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A trained counselor will answer the call, and information is provided at no charge. The HelpLine's specially trained counselors evaluate callers' needs and match them with appropriate treatment and educational programs.

Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline
1-866-NOBETØØ
(1-866-662-3800)

Kansans - and residents of other states - may also contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at:

1-800-522-4700

You can also visit the following web sites for additional help:

Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling Web Site

National Coalition on Problem Gambling Web Site

Visit the Gamblers Anonymous Web Site