How Balanced is Your Play?

Every March, the Colorado Lottery recognizes Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). This year’s theme, “Caring Communities, Stronger Futures,” is a reminder that healthy play starts with awareness and support.

Balanced play is about more than just lottery games. Playing should feel fun and entertaining—but sometimes it can start to feel stressful or overwhelming. If the fun stops, it’s important to know it’s okay to step away and regain your balance.

Here’s what to know about PGAM:

• What it's all about: PGAM is about checking in on yourself, learning the warning signs of problem gambling, and reducing the stigma around addiction.

• The facts about problem gambling: Most adults who gamble do so without problems—but millions struggle with their play. Last year, about 20 million adults reported at least one sign of problematic gambling behavior. Because gambling problems are often hidden, many people feel alone. PGAM helps raise awareness and remind anyone affected that support is available

• You may want to pause and check in if you notice signs like:

  • Frequently thinking about gambling

  • Feeling the need to gamble more and more

  • Using gambling to improve your mood

  • “Chasing” losses by continuing to gamble

  • Hiding or lying about how much time or money is spent gambling

  • Straining relationships because of gambling

• If you think you or someone you know needs support, Colorado offers a strong network of resources:

  • Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado

  • Kindbridge Behavioral Health

  • Peer support groups like Colorado Gamblers Anonymous (GA), Gam-Anon, Debtors Anonymous (DA), and Gamtalk.

• Free, confidential help is available 24/7 through the National Problem Gambling Helpline:

  • Call or Text: 1-800-GAMBLER

  • Chat: NCPGambling.org/chat

This March and any time of year, take a moment to check in on your play—and remember that help is always available.