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August is Responsible Gaming Education Month

The Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling recognizes August as Responsible Gaming Education month in Missouri. The awareness month originated in 2003 to promote responsible gaming efforts, as well as the resources available to those who develop a problem with gambling.

The goal of Responsible Gaming Education Month is to educate players on the potential characteristics and dangers of problem gambling, as well as positive play habits, so they can keep their play safe and fun. Strategies to keep games of chance from developing into a problem include setting time and budget limits, never borrowing money to gamble and understanding the chances of winning.

In support of Responsible Gaming Education Month, the Missouri Alliance is airing Don't Let Gambling Break You television and public service announcements (PSAs) throughout the month (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzVa91GmQnE). The PSAs pose questions designed to help recognize the signs of problem gambling.

The importance of responsible gaming guidelines is bolstered by the results of the 2022 Missouri Gambling Prevalence Study. The study found that 4.1% (200,000) of Missouri citizens meet problem gambling disorder criteria, ranging from mild to severe, while another 20.8% (1 million) are classified as at-risk for developing a gambling disorder.

If gambling is a problem for you or someone you know, it is important to seek help immediately. Free help from licensed professionals is available by calling 1-888-BETSOFF (1-888-238-7633), emailing freehelp@888betsoff.org or visiting 888betsoff.org. The Missouri Gaming Commission and the Missouri Lottery both offer their own voluntary, self-exclusion lists for problem gamblers. More information about problem gambling concerns and responsible gaming can be found at 888betsoff.org, ncpgambling.org, gamblersanonymous.org and themidwestconference.org.