March in Indiana is a time to celebrate basketball tournaments, the arrival of spring and the beginning of warmer weather. At the Hoosier Lottery, we observe National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, as designated by the National Council on Problem Gambling. We emphasize this important month through our Positive Play initiatives.
Positive Play means that playing the lottery should be a positive experience, regardless of whether you win or lose. We provide tools to support this message all year long. Our responsible gaming program encourages players to know the game, set a limit and keep it fun.
According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately two million adults in the U.S., which is about 1% of the population, have a severe gambling disorder. Additionally, another four to six million adults (2.2%) are identified as having problem gambling. And the most recent study in Indiana confirmed those numbers in our state.
Signs of problem gambling may include:
- Financial difficulties
- Accumulating debt
- Borrowing money to gamble
- Spending more than one can afford on gambling
- Chasing losses
- Visiting multiple gambling locations in a single day
- Increase in the frequency of gambling
- Neglecting family or personal responsibilities
- Having obsessive or constant thoughts about gambling
Recognizing these signs is important for addressing potential gambling issues.
This March, the Hoosier Lottery is launching a
Player Health Screening using the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen. Our aim is to destigmatize gambling-related language and promote Positive Play while raising awareness about problem gambling among our players. Players who complete the screening can enter to win one of five Positive Play prize packs. Each prize pack includes two tickets to an Indianapolis Indians game, a backpack, a hat, a scarf and a notebook.
The Hoosier Lottery is dedicated to collaborating with our employees, retailers, players and stakeholders to raise awareness about problem gambling and the services available for assistance. Take the Player Health Screening today to learn more about your well-being.
