The N.C. Education Lottery is supporting efforts this month to raise awareness about problem gambling and let those affected know that help is available.

Throughout March, the lottery is using its communications platforms, including its website, social media channels and video monitors in all 7000 lottery retail locations, to spread news and information about the resources available to someone with a gambling problem. The efforts are part of the state’s observance of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, as recognized in a proclamation issued by Gov. Roy Cooper.

“While most folks who play lottery games do play responsibly, the N.C. Problem Gambling Program can provide help to those who play too much,” said Alice Garland, executive director of the lottery. “With our participation, we want to do our part to let people know that hope and help exist.”

The lottery provides $1 million a year to support problem gambling services ranging from a 24/7 helpline to prevention efforts to free treatment and care. To use the helpline, you can:

- Text morethanagamenc to 53342.
- Join a live web chat at www.morethanagamenc.com.
- Call toll-free at (877) 718-5543.

“It is important for people to know that the N.C. Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, in the Department of Health and Human Services, aids individuals with intellectual and or developmental disabilities,” said Smith Worth, program administrator. “Since the inception of the N.C. Problem Gambling Program, thousands of problem gambling calls have been made to the hotline and thousands of teens and young adults have been exposed to prevention programs in middle schools, high schools and college and university campuses across the state. With ongoing material distribution and upcoming education and outreach endeavors, the N.C. Problem Gambling Program is dedicated to building awareness for what has been dubbed the hidden addiction.”

The National Council on Problem Gambling reports that an estimated 2 million U.S. adults, or one percent, meet criteria for pathological gambling, and another 4 to 6 million would be considered problem gamblers.

The lottery’s commitment to build the best practices in responsible gaming into all of its operations recently won it the highest level of responsible gaming certification recognized internationally. It is only the 4th U.S. lottery to obtain the certification and the youngest U.S. lottery to do so. The accreditation from the World Lottery Association attests that the lottery has implemented responsible gaming practices into its day-to-day operations and is committed to continuous improvement of them.