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Our Commitment | Where to Get Help | Gaming Safeguards

If gambling has become a problem for you or someone you know, help is available.

Warning Signs of Potential Problem Gambling:

  • Spending more time or money on gambling than planned or able to afford

  • Hiding lottery tickets from other people

  • Neglecting important responsibilities to play lottery games

  • Continuing to gamble after repeated attempts to stop

  • Borrowing money to gamble
  • Gambling to forget problems or reduce stress

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. Knowing the warning signs of problem gambling and how to get help are crucial to addressing gambling problems.

 

Problem Gambling Resources

If you are concerned about any of the above warning signs, help is available. You’re not alone. Read real stories of recovery and awareness. Illinois has options for counseling, treatment, self-help and support groups to address problem gambling. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it will help you get started today.

Help in Illinois:

  • 1-800-GAMBLER: This toll-free helpline is answered by trained specialists 24/7/365. They can provide confidential support and help determine if you or someone you know is showing signs of a gambling problem. If treatment is needed, these specialists can also provide references to programs and providers near you. Call: 1-800-GAMBLER, Text: "GAMBLER" to 833234, or visit: AreYouReallyWinning.org. 

 

Self-Help Resources:

  • Take the Screener: Only a trained professional can diagnose a gambling disorder; however, self-assessment tests can help you determine if gambling is becoming a problem for you.

    Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problems and help others to recover from a gambling problem. Locate a meeting near you or speak to someone.

  • Gam-Anon: A self-help organization for the spouse, family or close friends of compulsive gamblers. Call: 708-802-0105.

  • GamTalk: A 24/7, moderated, online peer support forum.

Gambling Treatment Providers:

Gambling services are available to people with problem gambling or gambling disorder. To find gambling treatment services near you, search here.

 

Exclusion Programs

Exclude Yourself from Online Illinois Lottery Play

Any individual wishing to exclude themselves from purchasing Illinois Lottery tickets online may do so by calling the Illinois Player Hotline at 1-800-252-1775. The exclusion from online play will be for a minimum period of 5 years.

Exclude Yourself from all Illinois Lottery Play

Any individual wishing to reduce their incentive to purchase Illinois Lottery tickets may do so by participating in a voluntary self-exclusion program. By signing the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Agreement, the player acknowledges they wish to be deemed ineligible to play any online or in-store Illinois Lottery games and be barred from claiming any cash payment or non-cash prize.

Getting Started:

  • Download the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program document to learn more.

  • Contact 1-800-GAMBLER to speak with a counselor to discuss the program and ask questions.

  • Determine whether the program makes sense for you. If it does, complete the Illinois Lottery Voluntary Self-Exclusion Agreement and sign the agreement in front of a Notary Public.

    • Why do I need a Notary Public to watch me sign the agreement? The Notary Public’s duty is to ensure your signature and identity match and that you are signing the agreement of your own free will and accord.
    • How do I find a Notary Public? Click here to search for a Notary Public near you.
  • Send the completed agreement to:

Illinois Lottery

Attention: Legal Section

101 W. Jefferson, MC5-950

Springfield, IL 62702

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