NCPG updates National Problem Gambling Harm Helpline number

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has announced that it has updated its number for the National Problem Gambling Helpline, adopting 1-800-MY-RESET instead. This comes at an important time for the gambling industry, which has been booming all over the country. As many as 20m adults in the United States may be showing at least one indicator of gambling-related harm, the NCPG claimed in a recent study.

Not only that, but adolescent boys are increasingly exposed to gambling online, and they participate in such activities with greater intensity and frequency than ever before. The NCPG has been motivated by several factors to execute this change, among which is the fact that the organization believes that the new number would give the issue better overall visibility. NCPG Executive Director Heather L. Maurer, MA, CAE, also commented on the occasion: With gambling now more accessible than ever, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is a critical lifeline. Making the number easier to remember helps ensure people across the country can quickly connect with high-quality, confidential support when they need it. By placing a call to 1-800-MY-RESET, people who phone in will be connected straight to the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network, a single point of access to 24 contact centers in the United States. These centers are staffed by professionals who meet international helpline quality standards and are uniquely trained to help individuals experiencing distress or harm related to their gambling.

The NCPG has used this opportunity to also remind people who may be hesitant about placing a call to 1-800-MY-RESET that all calls are anonymous and the helpline is free and confidential. The NCPG can provide help by referring callers to local resources, expediting a person’s recovery, and raising awareness of their issue at the same time. Commenting on the updated number, the NPCG Board of Directors President, Derek Longmeier, said: 1-800-MY-RESET reinforces that the National Problem Gambling Helpline is available at any stage—whether someone is worried about themselves, concerned about a family member, or simply looking for trusted guidance. Making the Helpline number easier to remember is a practical, meaningful step toward reducing barriers to care. Consumer protection measures in the United States are heavily debated, with some lawmakers going so far as to suggest a complete ban on gambling advertisements locally.