Playing responsibly

The lottery is entertainment. The odds are long, and on average players get back less than they spend. That's how lotteries raise money. If you play, treat a ticket as the cost of a little fun, never as a way to fix money problems.

Some good habits

• Set a budget you're comfortable losing, and stick to it.
• Don't chase losses, and don't borrow to play.
• You must be of legal age in your state to buy a ticket: 18 in most states, higher in some.

Signs it may be becoming a problem

• Spending more than you planned, or more than you can afford.
• Hiding how much you play from people close to you.
• Feeling you need to win back what you've spent.
• Playing to escape stress or worry.

Free, confidential help

Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537), available around the clock in the US. In New York you can also call the HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).