Pelican State News

The Louisiana Lottery Corporation is participating in National Problem Gambling Awareness Month this March. The initiative, supported by the Louisiana Department of Health’s Office of Behavioral Health, the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling (LACG), and the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), aims to educate the public about problem gambling and promote responsible gaming.

This year, the Lottery will align with the NCPG's theme "Seeking Understanding" to highlight problem gambling as a significant mental health issue. The goal is to increase awareness, encourage empathy, reduce treatment barriers, and support those affected by gambling-related harm.

Lottery President Rose Hudson stated, “The Louisiana Lottery recognizes the mental health struggles related to problem gambling, which is why we are steadfast in our commitment to promoting responsible play in order to ensure our games remain what they are designed to be, a form of entertainment.”

Annually, the first $500,000 from Lottery proceeds is allocated for problem gambling treatment and prevention. The organization also offers responsible play tips and warning signs on its website and through brochures at retailer locations. Throughout March, efforts will include raising awareness via online platforms.

Problem gambling affects approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults annually with severe issues and another 5-8 million with mild or moderate problems. In Louisiana specifically, 5.4% have potential disorder symptoms while 2.9% meet criteria for pathological disorders according to a study by the Department of Health's Office of Behavioral Health.

Experts suggest a three-question screening for individuals concerned about their gambling habits:

1. Have you felt restless or anxious when trying to stop or cut down on gambling?

2. Have you hidden your gambling activities from family or friends?

3. Have financial troubles due to gambling led you to seek help from others?

Those seeking assistance can contact the state’s Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-770-STOP (7867), managed by LACG.

Further information on responsible play and resources are available on various websites including www.louisianalottery.com/play-responsibly and www.helpforgambling.org.