Even if you’re only a casual bettor, it’s important to keep responsible gambling practices in mind. March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, so there’s no time like the present when reviewing your options.
Gambling addiction exists throughout the US, but, thankfully, treatment options are available. These options are Indiana-specific, but it’s commonplace for other states to have identical programs to help those in need.
Call the problem gambling hotline
About 1% of adults have a severe gambling problem, according to the National Center For Responsible Gambling.
However, that number doesn’t include everyone. After all, severe problems aren’t the only ones that exist.
Anyone can experience problematic gambling behavior. If things are getting out of hand for you or someone you know, a great first step can be calling the problem gambling hotline.
Hoosiers can call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (1-800-9-994-8448) in order to reach Indiana’s official hotline.
The hotline will connect you with someone who can point you in the right direction. Everyone has different needs depending on the symptoms they’re experiencing.
Take a self-assessment
If you’re not familiar with the signs of problem gambling, then you might not be sure if you have a problem.
Regardless, it’s best to play it on the safe side when it comes to potential addiction. Taking a self-assessment in Indiana is a great way to head down that path.
Self-assessments are a quick quiz, asking a handful of questions about your habits. The assessment may or may not classify you as someone with problematic tendencies, depending on your answers.
From there, you can make a more informed decision about what you need next. Whether that’s seeking treatment, stopping gambling altogether or a combination of other options.
Self-assessments are not an ironclad way to determine whether you have a gambling problem. Despite that, they’re a great place to start if you think things could be heading in the wrong direction.
Voluntary exclusion from gambling in Indiana
Voluntary exclusion is another solid way to keep yourself in check if you’re struggling with problem gambling tendencies. Indiana’s program is similar to those you may have heard of in other states.
Voluntary exclusion is a self-imposed ban on gambling in the state of Indiana. That ban covers the state’s casinos and online sportsbooks, so it’s possible to cast a wide net.
In order to sign up for voluntary exclusion, you’ll have to visit an official treatment provider in Indiana. Visiting the Indiana Gaming Commission office is also an option.
Your voluntary exclusion can last between one year and a lifetime, so you’ll have a big decision to make if you sign up.
If these options don’t feel like a great fit, then feel free to check out Indiana’s full list of resources. Gambling addiction is a treatable condition, and Hoosiers have access to plenty of free resources to help them start dealing with problematic behavior before it gets out of hand.
