By Kome Akpolo, General Counsel, Arizona Lottery
March marks National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a time to highlight the risks of problem gambling and emphasize the importance of responsible gaming. At the Arizona Lottery, we are dedicated to ensuring that our players understand the potential dangers associated with gambling and know where to turn for help when needed.
According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, approximately 2.5 million adults in the United States meet the criteria for severe gambling problems, with another 5 to 8 million exhibiting mild to moderate issues. Recognizing the signs of problem gambling is essential to addressing the issue before it leads to negative consequences. Common indicators include:
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The need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve excitement
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Difficulty controlling or stopping gambling
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Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut back
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Lying to conceal gambling activity
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Jeopardizing personal relationships, careers, or education due to gambling
At the Arizona Lottery, promoting responsible gaming and supporting statewide programs is not just a priority—it is a core component of our mission. That’s why in 2024, the Arizona Lottery applied for and received World Lottery Association Level 2 Responsible Gaming Certification. Through our Please Play Responsibly™ Program and ongoing partnership with the Arizona Department of Gaming’s Division of Problem Gambling, we strive to educate the public about the risks of gambling and provide resources for those who need assistance.
Each year, a portion of Arizona Lottery ticket sales supports problem gambling prevention, treatment, and education programs statewide. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, $300,000 was directed to the Division of Problem Gambling, contributing to a total of $6 million in funding since Fiscal Year 2005. These funds help ensure that individuals struggling with gambling addiction can access the support they need, including confidential treatment and recovery services.
We are committed to responsible gaming as a top priority. The Arizona Lottery is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming and supporting problem gambling prevention, treatment, and education programs statewide. Every ticket prominently displays the phrase “Play Responsibly,” along with the odds of winning and a call to action for those seeking help. Additionally, our website and customer service offices provide information about recognizing problem gambling and accessing professional support.
If you or someone you know is experiencing gambling-related issues, we encourage you to seek help. The Division of Problem Gambling offers confidential, 24/7 assistance through its helpline at 1-800-NEXT-STEP or by texting NEXT-STEP to 53342. Additional resources, including a self-screening quiz and links to Gambler’s Anonymous, can be found at problemgambling.az.gov.
At the Arizona Lottery, we urge everyone to prioritize responsible gaming and seek support when needed. We believe that gambling should always be a form of entertainment—not a source of harm. As we observe National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, promoting responsible gaming, and supporting those affected by gambling addiction across Arizona.
