How can I get a winning game plan? Is it easier to win playing new games on First Tuesday? Can I still win a drawing if lots of people are playing?

The answers to those questions and others from North Carolina lottery players can be found in the lottery’s Play Smart™ program, a player-focused, responsible gaming and prevention program. This month, the lottery is using its advertising, marketing and communication channels to raise awareness of the Play Smart program. That includes TV and radio advertising, postings on social media channels, and messaging on the lottery’s website and multimedia monitors in all 7,000 locations where lottery tickets are sold.

“We want to give everyone the chance to play smart when they play the lottery,” said Mark Michalko, executive director of the lottery. “Looking out after the interest of players goes hand-in-hand with the lottery’s mission to raise money for education. Playing the lottery should be for fun and Play Smart helps to keep it that way.”

The Play Smart program, available at nclottery.com/PlaySmart. provides:
• Information to help players understand how odds and probability work and dispel popular lottery myths.
• Tips and tools on how to set up a budget for lottery play and setting time and spending limits when playing.
• A 10-question quiz designed to help players see how their gaming habits can impact their lives.

The lottery’s efforts support a national campaign organized each March by the National Council on Problem Gambling to increase public awareness of problem gambling and of the availability of treatment and recovery services. In a proclamation issued Monday, Gov. Roy Cooper urged North Carolinians to join in the observance of March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

“It’s important to talk about problem gambling, recognize the signs, and reach out to offer support to anyone who may be struggling,” said Amanda Winters, program administrator for the N.C. Problem Gambling Program. “During March, we highlight the free resources and treatment offered in North Carolina. If it’s more than a game, know that you are not alone, recovery is possible, treatment works, and help is available 24/7.

Help is only a text or click away.
• Text morethanagamenc to 53342
• Chat online at morethanagame.nc.gov
• Call toll-free at (877) 718-5543

For more information on the national campaign, visit www