TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) -- It's Problem Gambling Awareness Week and officials met at the State Capitol today to unveil new helpful resources for those struggling with gambling addiction. (VIDEO INCLUDED)

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The Kansas Responsible Gambling Alliance revealed public service announcements and a brand new website, in hopes of upping the ante against gambling addiction.

Eighty-six percent of Americans have experience gambling, and national gambling statistics show about 12 million of them have some form of gambling problem.

Problem gambling officials are betting these new public service announcements, and a new web site, will enable them to reach and help more Kansans.

"Shame is a big part of this addiction so if people feel afraid for whatever reason to ask somebody about different resources, they can go on the web by themselves, access the information and go from there," Kansas Director of Responsible Gaming and Communication Mike Deines said.

It's an effort to stop addictions that may otherwise be ignored, addictions that can devastate families and leave people in financial ruin.

"It's similar to any alcohol and drug addiction in terms of you reach a point and get desperate and you'll do anything to continue to gamble," Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling President Joyce Markham said.

Officials say the odds are you might not even recognize a problem.

"It's described as the hidden addiction because unlike alcohol and drugs you don't smell the dice on your hands, or the cards," said Markham.

These new resources help provide hope for the hidden addiction and a second chance at life.

To check out those resources visit www.ksgamblinghelp.com... or call 1-800-522-4700.