In celebration of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Lottery is emphasizing the importance of responsible play by promoting various free resources designed to help players engage in Healthy Play® habits. Collaborating with both state and national organizations, the lottery aims to raise awareness about the adverse effects of gambling and to advocate for safe and informed gaming throughout the state. The campaign, now in its 23rd year, is being highlighted on social media using the hashtag #PGAM2026.
Pennsylvania Lottery Executive Director Drew Svitko stated, “Problem Gambling Awareness Month reminds us that Lottery games should be enjoyed responsibly and within your means. We’re very proud of the fact that the Pennsylvania Lottery has been a longtime supporter of this initiative.” He encouraged participants to utilize educational resources, set personal limits, and reach out to available support services, including the Pennsylvania Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER for assistance when necessary.
Throughout the year, the Lottery collaborates with organizations such as the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, Inc. (CCGP) to provide educational materials, counseling, and a range of support services for players and their families. CCGP aids individuals in recognizing early warning signs of gambling issues, participating in self-help meetings, and obtaining practical strategies to facilitate safer gambling practices. These resources empower players to make informed decisions and maintain control over their gaming behaviors.
Josh Ercole, Executive Director of CCGP, noted that gambling-related problems are often termed a “hidden addiction,” as they may be more difficult to identify than other types of addiction. He emphasized the goal of PGAM is not only to promote awareness but also to ensure that individuals know about the myriad of available tools and resources designed to help manage gambling issues.
The Pennsylvania Lottery offers various resources for those who enjoy both traditional games, such as Scratch-Offs, and online play. These include financial management tools that allow players to set spending limits, take cool-off periods, and opt for self-exclusion for periods of six months, one year, or five years. Additionally, a brief self-assessment survey assists individuals in evaluating their gaming behaviors and making necessary adjustments.
To support those affected by gambling-related harms, the Lottery also funds the Pennsylvania Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, where trained specialists stand ready to offer advice, treatment referrals, and guidance for individuals and families in need.
The Healthy Play® initiative encourages players to remain mindful of their gaming activities by playing within a budget, comprehending the odds of winning, avoiding the pursuit of losses, maintaining balance in life responsibilities, taking necessary breaks, and ensuring that minors do not have access to lottery games.
David Yeager, a veteran and advocate in long-term recovery from problem gambling, shared his personal journey during last year’s PGAM press conference. He discussed the profound financial and emotional implications of gambling addiction and expressed his commitment to educating veterans and military personnel about the risks. Yeager emphasized the need for greater awareness and education to help those affected realize that assistance is readily available.
Looking ahead, the Pennsylvania Lottery will partner with various organizations, including the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), to host an informational table about Problem Gambling Awareness Month at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on March 25. The event will invite the public to engage with representatives, ask questions, obtain educational materials, and learn more about accessible resources aimed at supporting players and their families.