March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), a national initiative led by the National Council on Problem Gambling. In its twenty-first year, the goal of PGAM is to help increase awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services.

"We are committed to responsible gaming and want our players to keep play positive and fun by knowing our games, understanding the odds and setting time and money limits," said Sarah M. Taylor, executive director of the Hoosier Lottery. "This is why we promote positive play, not just during March, but all year. If a player's gambling behaviors become damaging to themselves, their family or their workplace, we want them to know there are resources that can help."

The Hoosier Lottery provided the International Center for Responsible Gaming a $40,000 grant, which was awarded to the Cambridge Health Alliance, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. As a part of its research through the grant, the Cambridge Health Alliance is conducting a survey that opens on Gambling Disorder Screening Day, which is March 12, 2024. Hoosier Lottery players are encouraged to participate in the survey, and the first 50 eligible players who complete the study will receive a Hoosier Lottery Positive Play prize pack. For more information, visit HoosierLottery.com/PositivePlay.

Acknowledging that gaming operators, among others, play an important role in helping to prevent problem gambling, the Hoosier Lottery offers resources to those for whom playing the lottery has become more than a source of entertainment.

The Hoosier Lottery's Positive Play Toolbox provides educational and interactive experiences to help players keep their play healthy and positive. Players can access resources such as the Positive Play Quiz, a Track Your Play Calculator, financial literacy education tools and Positive Play videos including a new video on the signs of problem gambling. To learn more about the Hoosier Lottery's Responsible Gaming programs, visit HoosierLottery.com/PositivePlay.

Another resource for those experiencing problem gambling is the Problem Gambling Helpline that offers phone, text and online chat options and connects callers with problem gambling treatment providers throughout the state. The helpline can be accessed by dialing 1-800-955-6886, texting INGAMB to 53342 or clicking the Chat Now link at the top of any Hoosier Lottery webpage.