WHAT IS THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON PROBLEM GAMBLING?
 

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) was founded in 1972 and is currently comprised of 34 state affiliates. The members encompass the leading United States and international experts in problem gambling policy, research, prevention, education and treatment. The NCPG's mission is to increase public awareness of pathological gambling, ensure the widespread availability of treatment for problem gamblers and their families and to encourage research and programs for prevention and education.

The NCPG and its state affiliate councils are non-profit entities and maintain a neutral stance on gambling. The NCPG is not affiliated with any hospital, clinic, treatment or support group.

The Council administers several nationwide programs, including a 24-hour confidential helpline.

 

HOW DOES THE HELPLINE OPERATE?
 

The NCPG's nationwide help line offers unparalleled flexibility, due to it decentralized structure. When 1-800-522-4700 is dialed from anywhere within the U.S., the caller is instantly routed to the predetermined call center that has responsibility for the area where the call originated. Each answering location has problem gambling-specific resources and information for their particular geographical area.

An important aspect of the NCPG help line is its seamless computer switching system. Most other help lines serve only a limited area, usually a state. These numbers are often blocked to callers outside the state. Of course, many people cross state lines to buy a lottery ticket or visit a casino. The NCPG helpline is the only number that is guaranteed to work across the nation.

 

WARNING SIGNS OF A GAMBLING PROBLEM
 

Compulsive gambling is not easily detected. A person with a gambling problem will go to great lengths to keep the secret.

 

Some of the indicators that a person may have a gambling problem include:

•          Losing time from work or family due to gambling

•          Repeated failed attempts to stop or control gambling

•          Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts

•          Gambling to escape worry or trouble

•          Neglecting the care of one's self or family in order to gamble

•          Lying about the amount of time and money spent on gambling

•          Gambling more money in an attempt to win back losses (chasing)

•          Selling or pawning personal possessions to get money to gamble

•          Feelings of hopelessness, depression, or suicide as a result of gambling

•          A sudden need for money/loans

•          Secrecy and avoidance when questioned about time and money

 

To find out more about the National Council on Problem Gambling call 1-800-522-4700 or visit their website at www.ncpgambling.org