Problem Gambling

Don't Let Gambling Break You.

You are not alone, and free help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing a gambling problem, free help is available by calling 1-888-BETSOFF (1-888-238-7633).
Additional information can be found by visiting www.888betsoff.org and emailing freehelp@888betsoff.org.
Licensed counselors are waiting to speak with you 24/7.

Self-Exclude from the Missouri Lottery Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling

Problem Gambling Defined

A behavior disorder in which an individual has an uncontrollable urge to gamble, problem gambling is characterized by an increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, irritability when trying to stop, "chasing" losses and a loss of control.

Visiting one lottery vendor multiple times in one day

Borrowing money to gamble

“Chasing” losses

Preoccupation with gambling

Gambling to escape worry or problems

Visiting multiple Lottery vendors in one day

Hiding Lottery tickets from friends and family

Neglecting important responsibilities

Irritability when trying to stop

Anxiety/Depression

A need to bet more money more frequently

A loss of control

Prevalence of Problem Gambling

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), approximately 2-3 percent of Americans meet the criteria for problem gambling. Each year, more than 1,400 people reach out for help through the 1-888-BETSOFF helpline.

 

 

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), approximately 2-3% of Americans meet the criteria for problem gambling

 

Approximately 1% of Missourians believe their gambling has led to problems in their lives

 

Since its creation in 2013, 16 people have joined the Missouri Lottery’s Self Exclusion list

 

Each year more than 1,400 people reach out for help through the 1-888-BETSOFF program

Self-Exclude from the Missouri Lottery

Are Lottery games no longer just games? If Missouri Lottery products are causing you harm, you can sign up to self-exclude yourself from claiming prizes over $600, accessing the My Lottery® Players Club account, and receiving text and email alerts from the Lottery.

Sign-up forms can be downloaded here. Forms must be completed in their entirety and notarized.
To mail an application, send the application to the following address:

Missouri Lottery
Attn: Responsible Gaming Coordinator
P.O. Box 1603
Jefferson City, MO 65102

Completed applications can also be hand-delivered to any of the Lottery's offices.

  • Jefferson City (Headquarters): 1823 Southridge Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109
  • Kansas City: 3630 Arrowhead Avenue, Independence, MO 64057
  • Springfield: 1506 East Raynell, Springfield, MO65804
  • St. Louis: 1831 Craig Park Court, St. Louis, MO 63146

 

Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling

Founded in 1997, the Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling was the first of its kind of coalition in the United States focused on problem gambling by bringing together gaming operators and healthcare providers. The purpose of the Alliance is to:

  • Educate Missourians on the potential characteristics and dangers of problem and compulsive gambling;
  • Refer compulsive gamblers and their family and friends to free treatment;
  • Prevent underage play; and
  • Promote responsible gaming.

A founding member of the Alliance, the Missouri Lottery contributes time, talent and resources to provide for all marketing aspects for the Alliance. These efforts include creating TV and radio public service announcements (PSAs), distributing Bets Off billboards, maintaining the www.888betsoff.org website, and serving as the Alliance's secretary, which also operates as its media manager.

 

If gambling becomes more than just a game for you or a loved one, free help is available.

Source: Responsible Gambling Council, responsiblegambling.org