Go to VTGamblingHelp.org for up-to-date information on responsible gaming and problem gambling resources in Vermont.
How do I know if I have a gambling problem?
Gambling becomes a problem when it negatively impacts any area of your life. It doesn't matter how much you've lost or won. You may have a gambling problem if you have become preoccupied with gambling and continue to engage in gambling behavior even though it negatively impacts your life. Like any addiction, a gambling problem can cause disruptions to your well-being, job, and relationships. If this sounds like you or someone you know, you're not alone. Support is available.
Some warning signs of a gambling problem are:
- Thinking about gambling all the time.
- Feeling the need to bet more money and more often.
- Going back to try to win your money back (“chasing losses”).
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop or cut down.
- Feeling like you can’t control yourself.
- Gambling despite negative consequences.
- In extreme cases, problem gambling can cause bankruptcy, legal problems, losing your job or your family, and thinking about suicide.
Additional Resources for Problem Gambling
The 1-800-GAMBLER Helpline exists to efficiently connect people anywhere in the United States to problem gambling help, resources, and referrals. You can make a call, send a text to 800-GAM, or live online chat available 24/7/365.
Voluntary Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion allows a person to request to be excluded from legalized mobile sports wagering and fantasy sports activities in Vermont. For more information on voluntary self-exclusion visit: Exclusion List | Department of Liquor and Lottery (vermont.gov)
Tips for the Exclusion List Sign-Up Process:
- Please have access to your email and your cell phone, to receive a one-time authentication code.
- Please have ready a picture ID, as you will be asked to provide a Selfie and a picture of a photo ID. (Driver’s License, Passport, any ID that includes both your name and a photo.)
- Please provide clear photos, in which your name and the photo are visible.
- Please have available your Social Security number and Official Identification number. We accept Driver's License numbers, Passport numbers or State Identification numbers as official identifications.
- If you are unable to provide these items to register, see below for a link to assistance.
Sign up for the self-exclusion list.
Communities of Support
In-person and virtual meetings can offer guidance and support from people experiencing similar challenges. There are supports for individuals struggling with problem gambling and others for loved ones.
- Gambler's Anonymous: Information and meeting locations.
- Gam-Anon: Help for friends and family members.
- GamTalk: 24/7 moderated online peer support forum.
- Gamblers, Family, and Friends in Recovery: An International Noticeboard for People Seeking Recovery from a Gambling Problem. Online meetings available anytime from anywhere in the world.