Sunflower State News

The Kansas Lottery has partnered with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The theme for this year, "Seeking Understanding," aims to increase awareness of problem gambling, which is often misunderstood as a mental health condition. The campaign's goal is to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers to treatment, and support individuals and families affected by gambling-related harm.

Problem gambling is defined as gambling behaviors that disrupt or damage personal, family, or professional lives. It affects millions of Americans. Nationally, around 2.5 million U.S. adults meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, while an additional 5-8 million individuals experience mild to moderate gambling problems.

Problem Gambling Awareness Month serves as an important platform for organizations across the country to highlight resources available for prevention, education, treatment, and recovery related to problem gambling.

Throughout March, the Kansas Lottery will carry out various activities aimed at educating the community and initiating meaningful conversations about problem gambling. Planned events include multiple social media posts with engaging prompts and information; an awareness campaign through its player loyalty program and mobile app; and a public information campaign highlighting available resources.

The Kansas Lottery urges local media and community organizations to participate in this significant conversation by sharing information and emphasizing available resources.

For more details on problem gambling or how to raise awareness about it, visit http://www.ncpgambling.org/FAQs.

If you or someone you know struggles with a gambling problem, help is available 24/7/365 through the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER or www.1800gamblerchat.org. Assistance is free and confidential.