Michigan Lottery Switches to 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline

Back in February of 2024, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) announced state residents who are dealing with problem gambling can obtain the support and information they are looking for by calling the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline. 

The regulator explained the new helpline for gamblers would be operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), helping Michigan join the expanding network of states that have made the National Problem Gambling Helpline available. 

Now, the Michigan Lottery has joined in, announcing it would be also making the transition to the same 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline as a means of aligning the agency with the state regulator and the rest of online gaming platforms operating in the Great Lakes State in promoting 1-800-GAMBLER. 

Calls Routed to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

Calls made in Michigan will be directed to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Gamblers searching for assistance with their gambling problems will also be able to use the text alternative at 800GAM or opt for live chatting on the 1800gamblerchat.org website.

The lottery’s newly adopted 1-800-GAMBLER helpline will replace the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline that is currently available at 1-800-270-7117. 

However, the old number will still be available for calls.

According to commissioner Suzanna Shkreli in a press release, the Lottery has remained “committed to providing Michiganders with easy access to resources that support responsible gaming.”

Shkreli added that by making the transition to the new 1-800-GAMBLER number, they will “ensure that Michigan residents can reach specially trained staff who can provide confidential professional support, local referrals, and resources to those who may have a gambling problem.”

Trained Staff Available 24/7, 365 Days a Year 

Players will get access to trained contact staff available 365 days a year on a 24-hour basis. 

The staff will offer guidance, support, and relevant information to anyone searching for help in connection to different types of problem gambling. 

Moreover, players as well as their family members can also connect to text, live chat, and the helpline number for additional support resources by clicking the corresponding links found in the footer of the Lottery’s website.

As the pioneering lottery in the US to reach the Internet Responsible Gambling Compliance Assessment Program certification via NCPG in October 2015, the Michigan Lottery fully complies with Internet Responsible Gaming standards developed using the best practices from global jurisdictions. 

The Lottery offers players access to a plethora of responsible gaming tools and safeguards featuring self-exclusion options, daily and weekly deposit and loss limits, cool-off periods, age verification during account registration, and play history.

Last week, MGCB defended its anti-illegal gambling enforcement efforts and further emphasized its commitment to safeguarding players’ well-being and implementing state laws.