CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Human Services has launched “Are You Really Winning?” – a campaign to build awareness of problem gambling and to promote helpline services for people experiencing gambling problems. According to authorities, nearly 400,000 Illinois residents have a gambling disorder, and another seven percent, or 700,000, are at risk of developing a gambling disorder. The confidential helpline is available 24/7 and can be reached by dialing 1-800-GAMBLER.
“It is so important that we continue to let Illinois residents know about the signs of problem gambling,” said IDHS Secretary Grace B. Hou.
The campaign highlights the signs of problem gambling by asking these questions:
Have you ever felt restless, on edge, or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling?
Have you ever tried to ask people for money to help with financial problems caused by gambling?
Have you tried to hide how much you have gambled from your family or friends?
Help is also available through the website AreYouReallyWinning.com and by texting GAMB to 833234
Weekdays 12 a.m. to 5 a.m.
