March is National Problem Gambling Awareness Month and Iowa Problem Gambling says the first step is recognizing the issue. Problem gambling means participation in any form of gambling activity that creates one or more negative consequences to the individual experiencing problems with gambling their family or loved ones, employer or community.

If you or someone in your life fits that description, help can be found at ‘Your Life Iowa’ and 1-800-BETS-OFF. In state fiscal year 2024 there were over 13-hundred calls to 1-800 Bets Off. And in addition, in state fiscal year ’24 there was just over 74-thousand visits to Your Life Iowa, to the gambling page.

Zach Tomesch, News Director KFJB