Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWire) -- 05/13/2016 --Since its inception in 1875, the Kentucky Derby has become an annual tradition that sparks themed parties throughout the country—as well as a flurry of betting. Not limited to the track at Churchill Downs in Louisville, betting on the Kentucky Derby takes place across the country, even as far away as New Jersey, where racetrack betting is legal. This year, gamblers placed $192.6 million in Derby bets, the second-highest amount in the race's history (the highest was in 2015).

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, while neither for nor against any type of gambling, would like to draw attention to the Kentucky Derby as a major betting event that can trigger serious emotional and financial consequences for disordered gamblers. For those who, after this year's Derby, believe that they or a loved one needs help for a gambling addiction in New Jersey, the Council offers support, treatment, and hope through myriad resources.

The Kentucky Derby annual thoroughbred horse race, which takes place on the first Sunday of May every year, is part of the Triple Crown series of horse races, alongside the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. All three races provide ample betting opportunities for gamblers. While many will walk away relatively unscathed from the Derby, the period leading up to and following the race is an emotionally heightened, potentially devastating time for problem gamblers. Gambling addicts may wager risky amounts of money on the Derby, in the hopes that a big win on low odds will relieve them from previous gambling debts. Before and after the event, family members may be subject to the gambler's erratic behavior, which could include emotional or physical abuse.

After the emotional and financial storm leading up to and succeeding a major betting event like the Kentucky Derby, problem gamblers and their loved ones may feel lost and unsure of where to turn for help for gambling addiction in NJ. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey offers support via its 24/7, confidential hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER. Those concerned about their or a loved one's gambling can call the hotline to speak with a professional who will connect them with resources such as local Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon meetings. Above all, the Council provides hope, proving that it's never too late to begin the journey of recovery.

Learn more at http://www.800gambler.org.

About The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to helping individuals seek help for their compulsive gambling problem, and for concerned friends and loved ones to confidentially express their concerns about someone close to them. Their 24/7 hotline is 800-GAMBLER. The Council also works to train professionals in the fields of gambling addiction and recovery.

For more information, please visit http://www.800gambler.org.