RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The world’s biggest lottery jackpot, 1.5 billion dollars, is up for grabs Wednesday night and everyone is talking about lottery fever. But for some, playing the lottery and other games of chance is an addiction.
The jackpot is so big, signs can’t even handle the enormous amount.
“We always want to encourage people to play responsibly,” said John Haggerty with the Virginia Lottery.
A responsibility that for some becomes a real problem. Take Brian McMahon for example. Now, he sits on the board for the Virginia Council On Problem Gambling. But years ago gambling was an addiction.
“I had no need for a residence so I took the money I would spend on rent or a mortgage and I used it gambling and I was, for the most part, living out of my car,” said McMahon.
His Achilles heel was horse racing and high-stakes poker. He says his mind frame then is common in many gambling addicts.
“I can get even and I can quit when I do get even, but in order to get even I am going to have to bet progressively,” said McMahon.
He has some advice for those who think they may have a problem.
“See how long you can go without it, set a goal for yourself,” said McMahon.
If you can’t reach that goal it may be time to seek help.
“Another classic symptom is, are other people worried about you?” McMahon said. “In other words, do they bring it to your attention? Maybe you should ease up a little bit,” said McMahon.
As for the Virginia Lottery, they want people to play, but not if it means neglecting others in your life.
“The Virginia Lottery is not in the business of growing our sales on the backs of people who have gambling problems,” Haggerty said.
The Virginia Lottery is dedicated to helping those who need it. That’s why on every ticket and play slip they have the number to call to get assistance. It’s 1-888-532-3500.
