Problem gambling is a pattern of gambling behavior that disrupts personal, family, or community well-being. It can affect people of all ages, income levels, and backgrounds, and often co-occurs with stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use.

Gambling addiction is when gambling begins to disrupt daily life, like family, work, school, finances, and relationships.

Unlike drug or alcohol problems, gambling problems can stay hidden for a long time. A person may lose money or struggle emotionally before others notice.

In Virginia, the legal age is 18 for purchasing lottery tickets and participating in social casinos, and 21 for sports betting and retail casino gambling. 

Responsible gambling is about staying in control and treating it as a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. Here are some key guidelines: 

Set Limits 

• Set a time limit before you start and stick to it.  
• Set a spending limit in advance and don’t exceed it.  

Play for Fun 

• Treat gambling as entertainment, like paying for a movie or a night out.  
• Accept that losing is part of the experience — you’re paying to play.  

Manage Your Money

• Never borrow money to gamble, including from savings or essential expenses.  
• Don’t chase losses — once the money is gone, it’s gone.  
• Don’t rely on gambling as a source of income

Stay in Control

• Don’t let gambling interfere with your work, relationships, or daily responsibilities.  
• Avoid gambling when you’re feeling stressed, upset, or in pain.  

Understand the Basics 

• Gambling includes activities like sports betting and casino games (such as slot machines), whether online or in person.
• Sports betting involves wagering on the outcome of events, such as a game score or race result.   
• Casino games are based on three elements: prize, chance, and consideration (your stake).  
• Both use odds to determine potential payouts. Generally, higher odds = lower probability, higher potential payout. Lower odds = higher probability, smaller potential payout.

Know the Odds 

• Always be aware of how likely you are to win versus lose. The odds are designed to favor the operator over time. 

Play Legally 

• Make sure you meet the legal gambling age in your area and only use licensed, regulated platforms or venues. 

Keep It Social 

• Gambling should be a social, enjoyable activity, not something done in isolation or secrecy. 
• For more information and resources, visit the NCPG Responsible Gambling website.

Help for problem gambling in Roanoke is available through confidential helplines, local support services, and specialized treatment providers. Support is free, confidential, and available 24/7. 

Immediate & 24/7 Support: 

• Virginia Problem Gambling Helpline: Call or text 1-888-532-3500 for confidential, 24/7 assistance. 
• National Problem Gambling Helpline: Reach help via 1-800-MY-RESET (call or text) or use the online chat. 
• Gamblers Anonymous (GA): While physical meetings in the Roanoke area can be limited, you can find virtual and telephone meetings through the Gamblers Anonymous meeting finder.  

State and Local Organizations & Treatment:  

• Virginia Council on Problem Gambling (VCPG): The VCPG website serves as a hub for education and finding recovery assistance specific to Virginia residents.

Self-exclusion is a voluntary program that allows individuals with a gambling problem to legally ban themselves from all legalized gambling activities in Virginia, including casinos, online sports betting, and horse racing. In Roanoke and throughout the state, the program is administered by the Virginia Lottery. 

Once enrolled, self-exclusion becomes a binding agreement to stop gambling for a selected period. Available options typically include two-year or five-year exclusion terms, which can be completed through the Virginia Lottery’s online enrollment process. 

For individuals who wish to self-exclude permanently (lifetime exclusion), enrollment must be completed in person at Virginia Lottery headquarters or at designated casino locations. To schedule an appointment, contact the Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) office at 804-692-7185. 

For more information or to begin the process, visit the Virginia Lottery’s official self-exclusion page. 

You can report illegal gambling in Roanoke, VA, to the Virginia State Police (VSP) Gaming Enforcement Unit  using the toll-free number 1-833-889-2300, the online gaming complaint form, or text “VSPGaming” followed by your tip to 847411.  

Problem gambling is a public health issue that affects not only individuals, but also the organizations and communities that support them. Its impact is often hidden but it can influence both your internal operations and your external community impact. 

Direct (internal) impacts on your organization may include: 

• Employees or participants experiencing financial stress, leading to absenteeism, distraction, or decreased productivity.
• Increased need for staff time to respond to crisis situations or provide additional support.
• Strain on workplace morale, team dynamics, or program engagement.

Indirect (external) impacts on the community you serve: 

• Greater demand for services such as housing, food assistance, and financial support.
• Increased mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and stress.
• Strain on families and relationships, which can affect youth, caregivers, and overall community stability.

Problem gambling often overlaps with other challenges such as substance use, trauma, and financial hardship, making it relevant across many sectors, including healthcare, social services, education, and workforce development. 

Problem gambling can affect anyone, but some groups are at higher risk due to increased exposure, stress, or financial vulnerability. 

Organizations may see greater impact among: 

• Youth and young adults
• Veterans and military-connected individuals
• Individuals experiencing financial stress
• People with mental health or substance use concerns

Organizations across the Roanoke Valley play an important role in preventing problem gambling by increasing awareness, promoting healthy habits, and connecting individuals to support. 

You can get involved in several ways: 

• Educate your community
• Partner with local resources like BRBH
• Support high-risk groups
• Train staff and volunteers
• Promote financial wellness
• Share referral information

For training, information, or additional support, please visit the Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (BRBH) Gambling Prevention website where you can find our online request form at the bottom of the page. We’re happy to connect you with the right resources, whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your organization, or for veterans, adults, youth, family members, or friends. 

If you’re worried about your gambling, take this quick 10-question self-assessment screen quiz. Answer “Yes” or “No” honestly to see if you may be at risk. If your results raise concerns, support and treatment are available.

• Talk with your children about gambling and its potential risks. 
• Reflect on your own attitudes and habits related to gambling, as you are the most important role model for your kids. 
• Know where your children spend time online and what they are doing. 
• Set clear rules about which online games and platforms are appropriate. 
• Keep internet connected devices in shared, open areas of the home rather than in bedrooms. 

You can also use parental controls to help control access. Install apps designed to block access to gambling websites and apps, such as: 

• BetBlocker – A free tool that blocks access to over 15,000 gambling websites.  
• Gamban – Blocks thousands of gambling sites and apps across multiple devices.  
• GamBlock – Designed to prevent access to gambling content, with a focus on protecting underage users.

For gaming, visit the gaming website for parental control. 

Warning signs that a child or teen may be developing a gambling problem can include: 

• Being secretive about their online activities 
• An increased or unusual interest in sports beyond a favorite team (such as tracking many games or scores) 
• Frequently checking their phone during sporting events 
• Strong curiosity or excitement when others discuss gambling 
• Frequently asking for money 
• Owing money to others 
• Spending large amounts of money without a clear explanation 
• Stealing money or valuables 
• Possessing gambling-related items such as betting slips, lottery tickets, or casino chips 
• Suddenly using gambling terminology such as “spread,” “line,” or “parlay” 

If you are concerned that your child may have a gambling problem, initiate an honest conversation, provide emotional support while setting boundaries (console), or speak with a healthcare provider. They can help connect you with a counselor, psychologist, or social worker experienced in gambling-related concerns. 

You can also Call 1-800-MY-RESET for free, confidential 24/7 help, or explore  Gam-Anon meetings for support. It is important to avoid demonizing your child; focus on fixing the destructive behavior rather than blaming the individual. 

Gaming 

• Playing video games for fun, competition, or social connection  
• May include in-game purchases or rewards  

Gambling 

• Betting money or something of value on an uncertain outcome  
• Includes sports betting, casinos, online betting apps, and some game-based systems  

The overlap 

• Loot boxes (paying for a chance-based reward)  
• Skin betting or trading  
• “Free-to-play” games with paid random rewards  

Not every behavior is a problem, but patterns matter. You might want to take a closer look if your child: 

• Becomes preoccupied with winning, rewards, or “one more try”  
• Spends increasing amounts of money in games  
• Gets frustrated, secretive, or defensive about gaming or spending  
• Borrows or takes money without clear explanation  
• Chases losses (“I just need one more win to get it back”)  

1. Learn the games they play 
Spend a little time watching or even playing. Understanding the mechanics makes conversations easier and more credible. 

2. Set clear boundaries 

• Use parental controls for purchases  
• Require approval for in-game spending  
• Set limits on time and money  

3. Talk and educate your kid about money and odds 
Help your child understand: 

• What it means to budget and why it matters  
• Random rewards are designed to keep people spending  
• Winning is never guaranteed  
• Games often use psychological tricks to encourage repeat spending  

4. Model healthy behavior 
Kids notice adult habits whether it’s sports betting, lottery tickets, or mobile games. 

5. Keep communication ongoing 
This isn’t a one-time talk. Check in regularly as games, trends, and peer influences change. 

Consider reaching out for support if: 

• Spending is escalating despite limits  
• Your child shows distress tied to gaming or gambling  
• There are impacts on school, relationships, or mood  

Check out our library below to equip yourself to prevent problem gambling among young adults, teens and kids:  

• Youth gambling fact sheet 

• Youth gambling conversation guide  

• “Why the ‘Excitement’ of Gambling Can Be Risky”: TEDxYouth@RVA 

This can be confusing because some games feel like gambling, even if they don’t look like it at first. 

BUT… Some games mix the two, which can make things tricky.

 For example: 

• Buying “loot boxes” (random prizes)  
• Spending money for a chance at rare items  
• Trading or betting items in games like Counterstrike  

These can feel like gaming, but they use chance, just like gambling. If you’re spending money and don’t know what you’ll get, that’s a sign it might be closer to gambling. 

If you or one of your friends experience the following:  

• Obsessing over betting or gaming outcomes  
• Borrowing or stealing money  
• Mood swings tied to wins/losses  
• Declining school performance  
• Hiding online activity 

Help can be found if you reach out to your school counselors, local youth services, or parents.  

You can also: 

• Call 1-800-MY-RESET or text 800GAM
• Take a free problem gambling self-assessment test  
• Begin a free chat session  
• Get help now 

• Transition to civilian life in a mixed urban–rural region 
  Moving from structured military environments to civilian life in Southwest Virginia can bring changes in routine, employment, and social support.  
• Stress, isolation, or mental health challenges 
  Veterans in the region may experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, or social isolation, which can increase the risk of using gambling as a coping strategy.  
• Financial strain in a lower-to-moderate income region 
  Economic pressures in parts of the Roanoke Valley may increase vulnerability to “quick fix” thinking, including gambling to try to solve financial stress.  
• High availability of online gambling and sports betting 
  Mobile sports betting and gaming platforms make gambling easily accessible at any time, including in rural parts of the region where in-person supports may be farther away 

Problem gambling can lead to: 

• Loss of income or savings due to repeated betting or “chasing losses”  
• Increased debt, including credit cards, loans, or unpaid bills  
• Housing or utility instability if funds meant for essentials are spent on gambling  
• Difficulty budgeting VA disability, pension, or retirement income 

Behavioral warning signs 

• Spending increasing time on online gambling or sports betting apps, which are widely accessible throughout the Roanoke Valley  
• Becoming more isolated from local veteran groups, peer support programs, or community activities  
• Lying about or minimizing gambling activity  
• Restlessness, irritability, or agitation when not gambling  
• Neglecting daily responsibilities, appointments, or commitments  

Financial warning signs 

• Difficulty managing VA benefits, disability payments, or retirement income  
• Borrowing money from friends, family, or other veterans in the area  
• Falling behind on rent, utilities, or transportation costs in the Roanoke Valley area  
• Selling personal items or taking on debt to continue gambling  
• Unexplained financial stress despite stable income sources  

Emotional and mental health warning signs 

• Increased stress, anxiety, depression, or hopelessness  
• Using gambling to cope with transition stress, PTSD, or isolation  
• Mood swings tied to wins or losses  
• Withdrawal from family, peers, or local veteran support systems  
• Feeling shame or secrecy around gambling behavior  

Veterans in the Roanoke Valley who choose to gamble can reduce risk by setting clear limits, staying aware of warning signs, and keeping gambling as a form of entertainment—not a source of income or a way to cope with stress.  

Set clear limits before you start 

• Decide in advance how much money and time you are willing to spend  
• Only gamble with money you can afford to lose (not VA benefits needed for bills or essentials)  
• Avoid trying to “win back” losses  

Keep gambling in balance with daily life 

• Make sure gambling does not interfere with VA appointments, work, family time, or veteran community activities in the Roanoke Valley  
• Take breaks and avoid gambling when stressed, upset, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs  
• Don’t rely on gambling as a coping strategy for PTSD, anxiety, or isolation  

Be cautious with online and sports betting 

• Mobile apps and sports betting platforms are widely accessible in the Roanoke Valley, making it easy to gamble frequently  
• Turn off notifications or limits on gambling apps when possible  
• Avoid impulsive betting, especially during live sports events  

Be alert for signs such as: 

• Spending more time or money than planned  
• Borrowing money or using credit to gamble  
• Hiding gambling activity from family or peers  
• Feeling anxious, guilty, or stressed about gambling  

Veterans in the Roanoke Valley are encouraged to stay connected with: 

• Peer support groups and veteran community programs  
• Financial wellness or budget support services  
• Behavioral health resources when needed  
• The Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (BRBH) Gambling Prevention Department for education, tools, and support  

Family members don’t need to have all the answers, they just need to notice patterns, stay engaged, and help create a pathway to support.

Family members can notice changes first, but many of the core warning signs overlap with those outlined in other sections on problem gambling and veteran risk factors such as changes in trust, communication, or behavior; shifts in household stability; and emotional or relational changes.  

The Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (BRBH) Wellness and Prevention department is your local resource for support with gambling and gaming-related concerns. We focus on preventing problem gambling through outreach, education, and training for individuals, organizations, and community partners. 

Roanoke also has a strong veteran support network, including VA health services, community organizations, and outreach programs. While these resources are spread across different systems, they work together to support veterans and can serve as important partners in identifying needs and connecting individuals to care. 

https://vcpg.net
https://thriveworks.com
https://dbhds.virginia.gov
https://www.ncpgambling.org
https://gamblersanonymous.org
https://www.psychologytoday.com
https://www.ncpgambling.org/