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Responsible Gaming

Responsible Gaming

Tips for Betting Responsibly

Moderation is the key to responsible gaming. Here are some responsible gaming tips:
    • Gambling shouldn't be considered a way to make money, but rather an enjoyable form of entertainment performed in moderation.
    • Set money and time limits for gaming and stick to them. Any money you spend on gambling should be part of your entertainment budget.
    • Your budget on gambling should be based on what you can afford to lose.
    • Gambling is your choice. Don’t allow yourself or others to pressure you to play.
    • Take a break and participate in other forms of entertainment. Gambling should be a fun and limited part of a well-balanced lifestyle.
    • Gambling should not be considered a requirement for having a good time.
    • Avoid gambling when you’re upset, lonely, angry, depressed, or stressed.
    • Gambling is not advised for those in recovery for addictive disorders or dependencies.

Problem Gambling

Problem gambling may affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender or financial status.  Once it is detected, problem gambling may be treated successfully. The first step is determining if you have a problem or are headed toward a problem. See the Problem Gambling Fact Sheet for more information.

Some warning signs are:

  • Woman gambling at a slot machine
    • Missing work or sacrificing time with your family to gamble
    • Gambling is causing problems with your family
    • Lying about the time spent gambling or the money you’ve lost
    • Being unable to stop or control your betting
    • Borrowing money to gamble
    • Gambling to get money to solve financial problems
    • Selling or pawning property to get money for gambling
    • Spending money on gambling that should have gone to pay your bills
    • Gambling more to recover your losses
    • Committing a crime or considering committing a crime to pay for gambling
    • Feelings of hopelessness, depression, or suicide

Confidential Help and Support

  • Our Commitment

    The Michigan Lottery is dedicated to ensuring our players are provided with a fun and safe form of entertainment. As part of this effort, the Michigan Lottery provides $1 million each year to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to support statewide education and treatment programs for problem gambling.  

    March 12, 2024, was designated as Gambling Disorder Screening Day. The purpose of this day is to educate and support healthcare providers in screening for gambling disorders. To support Gambling Disorder Screening Day, you can locate information at https://www.divisiononaddiction.org/outreach-resources/gdsd/toolkit/information/.

    Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline

    Call: 800-270-7117

    The Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline provides confidential, one-on-one support to any Michigan resident seeking help for a gambling problem. Counselors are available to provide immediate assistance including screening services and referrals to treatment or support groups. The toll-free helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

    Michigan Problem Gambling Chat and Text

    Text: 248-648-3363

    Live Chat

    The Michigan Lottery has teamed with the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling to increase access to problem gambling support through live chat and text.

    Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

    The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services administers a variety of services to Michigan residents affected by problem gambling. These services include the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline, prevention programs, and treatment programs.

    MDHHS - Problem Gambling


    National Council on Problem Gambling

    Call: 800-522-4700

    Text: 800-522-4700

    Live Chat

    The National Council on Problem Gambling serves as a national advocate for programs and services to assist problem gamblers and their families. For more information visit ncpgambling.org.

    Michigan Association on Problem Gambling

    Michigan Association on Problem Gambling

    MAPG is the Michigan affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. The organization helps gamblers and their family members by presenting prevention and recovery information.