ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Gambling can quickly become a serious issue for many people, and experts say stigma and shame can cause people to hide their behavior and avoid asking for help.

But help is available. That’s the message from the Illinois Department of Human Services, Illinois Lottery and Illinois Gaming Board as they recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month across the state.

In the Rockford region, many resources are available, like Remedies Renewing Lives. It offers gambling addiction services and personalizes treatment for each person.

“It can be kind of a quiet addiction; with other substances you can see someone is addicted. They can provide specimens that show us substances are in their system. With gambling there are no tells,” said Christine Johnson, Remedies program manager.

With Rockford’s Hard Rock Casino opening a little more than 6 months ago, concerns of addiction rose in the community. Reverend Violet Johnicker from Rockford Urban Ministries says she sees the economic boost locally, but the people who are gambling are not the ones equipped to do it.

“We know that studies in the past have shown that for every one dollar the city thinks it’s making in revenue there is approximately three dollars in increased social services costs over time,” Rev. Johnicker said.

And Hard Rock does have a resource page for people with concerns.

Experts caution casinos are only one area of concern; people also use slot businesses and online apps.

“There’s all sorts of gambling apps and sources set up. Unfortunately, a lot of teenagers are starting to gamble and have access to the apps,” Johnson said.

According to research by Health Resources in Action, 4 percent, or nearly 400,000 of Illinois residents, have a gambling disorder, and another 7 percent, or 700,000, are at risk of developing one.

Johnson says ways to spot gambling addiction in loved ones is if they ask for money, get new things constantly or lie about where they are going.

“The best way to get some help is to start some open dialogue encourage that person to maybe talk about their gambling habits,” Johnson added.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a gambling problem, call 815-547-4502 or 1-800-GAMBLER, visit AreYouReallyWinning.com or text GAMB to 833234.

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