The California State Lottery kicks-off a statewide campaign March 6-12, 2006 to raise awareness about problem gambling and the resources available for individuals and their families affected by this problem. "This effort is a part of a national effort to increase public and professional awareness of this issue," said Lezlie Puglia Director of Communications. "Our goal is to spread the word that problem gambling is treatable and there is help available for those impacted by problem gambling."
The California State Lottery’s public awareness effort is sponsored in collaboration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), the California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG), the California Horse Racing Board, California Gambling Control Commission, Department of Justice’s Division of Gambling Control, Department of Mental Health, and California Department of Alcohol and Drug Program’s Office of Problem Gambling.
The statewide campaign includes public service announcements that will air on television throughout the month of March and multi-language information on the California State Lottery’s website, www.calottery.com. Additionally, more than 18,500 Lottery retailers will have multi-language brochures in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean highlighting problem gambling warning signs and the Lottery’s toll free helpline 1-888-277-3115.
Approximately 1%-3% of the nation's adult population, experiences a progressive behavior disorder known as problem or compulsive gambling. This behavior can lead to an uncontrollable preoccupation or urge to gamble. Since 1980, the American Psychiatric Association has classified compulsive gambling as a treatable illness.