News

Powerball Jackpot Media Frenzy Offers Opportunity for Responsible Gambling Messaging

03.27.19ncpgadmin

Washington, D.C. – As the Powerball jackpot has reached record levels, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) urges consumers to protect themselves against excessive gambling and calls upon lotteries and the media to promote responsible gambling messages.

Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the NCPG, states, “The media and consumer interest in high lottery jackpots creates an opportunity to provide responsible gambling messages designed to help people who choose to gamble to make informed decisions about their play.” Responsible gambling efforts should be made by lottery operators and players alike.

Here are five simple responsible gambling tips to know and share:

• Set a limit of time and money spent gambling.
• Don’t gamble to escape feelings of anxiety, stress or depression.
• Know where to get help for a gambling problem.
• Minors are prohibited from most forms of gambling.
• Don’t gamble with money that is needed to pay bills.

Whyte notes, “Lotteries play an important role in reminding retailers and players about the minimum age to play and in educating their players about simple steps to promote responsible gambling.”

State lotteries and media are asked to incorporate responsible gambling messaging and the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700) into their upcoming promotion and coverage of the Powerball jackpot.

The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-522-4700 or www.ncpgambling.org/chat) is the single national point of access for problem gambling help. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in all 50 states. All calls are confidential and offer local information and referral options for individuals with gambling problems and their families.  

About the National Council on Problem Gambling

NCPG is the national advocate for problem gamblers and their families. NCPG is neutral on legalized gambling and works with all stakeholders to promote responsible gaming. For more information on the 33rd National Conference on Problem Gambling, visit www.ncpgambling.org/conference.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network at 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org/chat for confidential help.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 27, 2019

CONTACT:

NCPG
(202) 547-9204
ncpg@ncpgambling.org