About Us
Responsible Play
The Maryland Lottery encourages responsible play
Remember, it’s only a game.
With the implementation of video lottery facilities in the state, Marylanders now have greater access to a variety of gambling and gaming opportunities. While most individuals are able to play responsibly within their limits, some do lose control. For those individuals, what starts out as fun and exciting can lead to dangerous consequences. Problem gamblers jeopardize everything important in their lives – including their family, friends, job and finances.
The Maryland State Lottery Agency is committed to ensuring that individuals have access to assistance with problem gambling should they need. The state offers access to a 24-hour, 365-day helpline, which can be reached at 1-800-522-4700. The helpline connects individuals to services including counseling, treatment, self-help and support groups. You can also gather more information through the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling at mdgamblinghelp.org.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Spends a lot of time gambling – may miss work, school, family obligations, or other important events.
Hides gambling losses – frequently talks about wins but keeps losses and information about family finances to themselves
Gambles to escape – uses gambling to escape from pressures at home or work; also a person may gamble out of loneliness or grief
Suffers severe mood swings – a person’s state of mind depends on whether or not he/she wins or loses; when not gambling, the person may become anxious or angry
Bets increase in size – bets higher amounts in the hope of breaking even or winning back losses
Tries to stop gambling, but can’t – a compulsive gambler may try to stop gambling, but in most cases is unable to quit without help
Voluntary Exclusion Program
The state of Maryland operates a voluntary exclusion program for individuals who wish to ban themselves from Maryland video lottery facilities.
For more information, click here.
Additional Resources Include
Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling – mdgamblinghelp.org
Maryland Council on Problem Gambling – 410-375-1421
National Council on Problem Gambling – 1-800-522-4700
Gambler’s Anonymous International Service Office – 213-386-8789
Gam-Anon International Service Office – 718-352-1671
NASPL Problem Gaming Resource Center
NASPL Problem Gaming Frequently Asked Questions
The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced the release of Gambling Prevalence in Maryland: A Baseline Analysis, a report on gambling habits and problem or pathological gambling in Maryland. Data were collected between September 7, 2010 and October 31, 2010. To view the press release click here. The full report is available by clicking here or by visiting http://www.maryland-adaa.org/content_documents/GAMBLING/gambling201_0610.pdf.
