As we recognize the 20th annual Problem Gambling Awareness Month this March, the Pennsylvania Lottery and its responsible gambling partners are working to spread the word that help is available for those struggling with compulsive gambling issues.

How can you tell if you have a gambling problem? Problem gambling is any gambling, betting or wagering that causes issues for someone, their family members or friends — whether those are financial, legal, emotional or have some other impact. Gambling problems can be mild or severe and can worsen over time.

A gambling disorder is often referred to as a “hidden addiction,” as it can be more challenging to detect than other addictions. It is a chronic and progressive disease, much like alcoholism or drug addiction. It’s best to confront the problem early while there’s still time to get help before it becomes problematic.

While most people are able to play the Pennsylvania Lottery in a responsible and enjoyable way, we recognize gambling can be problematic for some players — that’s why the Pennsylvania Lottery and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania are working together to publicize resources that are available for Pennsylvanians. Anyone needing help for themselves or a loved one can call the Pennsylvania Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537). Chat and text options are also available at www.pacouncil.com/helpline.

The lottery helps to fund the helpline, which is available 24/7, 365 days per year. All calls are free and confidential. When players call the Pennsylvania Problem Gambling Helpline, they are referred to trained professionals who can provide assistance to anyone affected by a gambling problem.

Additional help and information are available at www.pacouncil.com, the CCGP website. This is where you can read about some of the warning signs that may signal you or a loved one may suffer from problem gambling disorder. The CCGP website also has information available on self-help meetings, including those that are being conducted virtually.

We’re also reminding people to read over the 10 Rules of Responsible Gambling to find helpful tips that will help you ensure you are gambling responsibly:

1. If you choose to gamble, do so for entertainment purposes. If your gambling is no longer an enjoyable activity, then ask yourself why you are still playing?

2. Treat the money you lose as the cost of your entertainment. Treat any winnings as a bonus.

3. Set a dollar limit and stick to it. Decide before you go what you can “afford” to lose and how much you want to spend. Do not change your mind after losing.

4. Set a time limit and stick to it. Decide how much of your time you want to allow for gambling. Leave when you reach the time limit whether you are winning or losing.

5. Expect to lose. The odds are that you will lose.

6. Make it a private rule not to gamble on credit. Do not borrow money to gamble.

7. Create balance in your life. Gambling should not interfere with or substitute for friends, family, work or other worthwhile activities.

8. Avoid “chasing” lost money. Chances are, the more you try to recoup your losses, the larger your losses will be.

9. Don’t gamble as a way to cope with emotional/physical pain. Gambling for reasons other than entertainment can lead to problems.

10. Become educated about warning signs of problem gambling. The more you know, the better choices you can make.

Remember that when choosing to gamble, it should be kept fun and as a source of entertainment. If sticking to limits becomes a challenge, that may be a sign of a problem. If you or a loved one is struggling with problem gambling issues, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember that recovery is possible, and help is just a call away.

Pat Browne is the acting secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue, which operates the Pennsylvania Lottery. Josh Ercole is the executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania, a nonprofit that provides information and resources on problem gambling.