SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department of Human Services is launching a new campaign to help people who may have a gambling problem.
The state has a new campaign promoting a new website, “AreYouReallyWinning.com” — and will help people identify the signs of addiction.
“Are you actually winning when you gamble? Is it fun, or is it something that may be causing problems financially for you, or for your family?” said Patrick Laughlin, Illinois DHS spokesman.
Laughlin says those are some of the questions the website helps people ask and answer for themselves.
“Have you ever felt restless, on edge, or irritable when trying to stop or cut down on gambling? Have you tried to hide how much you gamble from your family or friends?” said Laughlin.
In addition to the new website, Laughlin says you can also call 1-800-GAMBLER to be connected to other state resources.
It’s estimated that four percent of people in Illinois have a gambling problem, and another seven percent are at risk of being addicted to it.
