March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a nationwide grassroots campaign that seeks to increase public awareness of problem gambling and promote prevention, treatment and recovery services.


In Minnesota, people with a gambling problem can get help and counseling at no cost. Help is also available at no cost to their affected family members. Taking the first step can often be the most difficult step towards recovery but help is truly just a phone call away. If you are concerned that gambling is becoming more than a game for you or a loved one, please contact the free, confidential 24/7 helpline at 1-800-333-HOPE (4673).

What happens when someone calls the helpline?

  • Every call is answered by a trained licensed counselor. They are prepared to handle any type of situation.
  • The counselor will begin the conversation by asking how gambling has harmed the caller. The caller can share as much or as little information as they want.
  • The helpline is confidential — any information discussed will not be shared with anyone else.
  • Once the specialist learns more about the caller’s story, they will talk about the different types of treatment services that are available. There are a variety of options like traditional 12-step programs, treatment in-person, virtual, a clinical setting or even talking to someone with lived experience like a gambler in recovery.
  • They can also refer the caller to local treatment groups or support groups.
  • Callers may also ask for a free subscription to Gamban, an app that blocks tens of thousands of gambling and gaming sites around the world.
  • If a caller isn’t ready to seek treatment but are in financial straits because of their gambling, they can ask to be referred to LSS Financial Counseling Services for up to 6 sessions with a trained financial counselor trained in problem gambling.

Another way to take the first step is via text by texting HOPE to 53342 to connect with an automated system that will refer you to treatment providers near you. There’s no judgment, only hope.


Hope is tied into the campaign for this year’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month. “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. By fostering a deeper understanding of the issue, we can encourage empathy, reduce barriers to treatment and provide support to those affected by problem gambling.

For additional information on problem gambling help, visit getgamblinghelp.com.

To learn more about the warning signs of a problem gambling, visit the gambling help section of our website.

The Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling is Minnesota’s advocate and central resource for all Minnesotans seeking information on problem gambling. Visit their website to learn more.