SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - Whether it's the casino, bingo or scratch-off lottery tickets, thousands across the Upeer Midwest struggle with gambling addiction.
Brian Zirbes with the Minnesota Department of Human Services says that problem gambling rarely exists alone.
Zirbes says a little more that 70% of individuals with problem gambling also have problems with alcohol and about 60% of people with problem gambling also are dependent on nicotine.
Nationally, more than six-million people are considered problem gamblers and Zirbes says it's important for family and friends to recognize warning signs.
He says that includes gambling for longer than intended, gambling until the money is gone; being preoccupied with gambling to the point where those activities interfere with your daily functioning or where it has a negative impact on your health.
South Dakota Lottery says assistance for problem gambling is available at 1-800-781-HELP.
(Thanks Minnesota News Connection)