Many state services have been altered or closed due to the coronavirus pandemic. As this situation can prove problematic for those who could benefit from New Hampshire problem gambling assistance, such resources are still available.
It’s a “perfect storm” for people with compulsive gambling issues because of the importance placed upon staying at home and the economic downturn. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services can help such people make it through this time, however.
New Hampshire problem gambling resources still available via the internet and over the phone
There’s no need to ignore social distancing recommendations in order to access treatment. You can access many of the NH DHHS resources on the web or via telephone.
The National Council on Problem Gambling has a hotline you can use to identify resources that will be most accessible for you. The number to call or text is 800-522-4700.
You can also chat live with professionals at the NCPG. They will help you ascertain what treatment options will be most effective for your unique situation.
The NH DHHS has set up the NH Council on Problem Gambling as well. It provides many of the same services, and the number to call is 603-724-1605 if you prefer to contact the council over the phone.
Although those councils can’t provide you with immediate counseling, they can direct you to that treatment. Most of their services are free of charge.
While one-on-one counseling works well for some, other effective resources are more social in nature. These include Gamblers Anonymous, Gam-Anon and GamTalk.
Gamblers Anonymous is a support group for people with compulsive gambling issues while Gam-Anon is for the family members and close friends of such individuals. GamTalk is an online forum for both groups of people.
Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon have shifted to weekly call-in meetings to slow the spread of COVID-19. Many of the one-on-one counseling resources have moved to remote sessions as well.
The NH Lottery has a couple of programs that can help people with compulsive gambling issues help themselves. Those are available via computers and smartphones.
New Hampshire’s deposit limit and self-exclusion programs for gamblers
On the New Hampshire Lottery’s website, New Hampshirites can set limits for how much money they can deposit into their iLottery and DraftKings Sportsbook accounts. Such people can set limits on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
You can customize the amounts up to $500 per day, $1,500 weekly and $3,000 per month. If you find you need more help than that, there is also the option to voluntarily exclude yourself.
Through the NH Lottery self-exclusion program, you can effectively bar yourself from gambling for a period of time. Family and friends of such people should note that the program is completely voluntary and individuals can only register themselves.
Options for exclusion include one, three or six months. That will apply for both the NH iLottery and DraftKings Sportsbook in the state.
Facing money problems and being confined to their residences can be a problem for those with compulsive gambling problems. Fortunately, NH has made provisions for help even in these circumstances.