Let’s discuss how to keep gambling fun and avoid it developing into a problem. First, let’s make sure we’re all talking about the same thing here. When I say gambling, I mean anything where you are risking something of value on an activity that has an uncertain outcome. This can be online/in-person casino betting, lottery/scratch-offs, sports betting/fantasy sports, and off-track betting, just to name a few.
So how can we keep gambling fun? Here are a few tips:
- Set a money and time limit in advance (and stick to it)
- Walk away from your losses (don’t try to win your money back)
- Look at gambling as the price for entertainment (gambling should never be looked at as a way of making money)
- Pay attention to your feelings (don’t gamble to cope with sadness, anger, boredom or loneliness)
- Take part in other activities (don’t make gambling your go-to activity for fun; explore other activities)
- Take breaks (gambling for long stretches of time might make you lose track of time and money spent, which increases your risk)
- Be careful if you drink or use drugs (when you use drugs or alcohol, it can make it harder to stick to your gambling limits)
Don’t forget that gambling is only legal for adults.
Gambling can be a source of entertainment but for some people, it stops being fun and can become a problem. When someone can’t stop gambling, like with drugs and alcohol, it can become an addiction. Not only can a gambling addiction negatively affect that person’s life, but it can also hurt those around them. The tips above can help prevent gambling from becoming a problem, but if you suspect that you might have a problem or you are impacted by someone else’s gambling, know that there is help available.
If you’re in Eastern Connecticut, call the Bettor Choice Gambling Treatment Program at UCFS Healthcare at 860-823-3094. We provide individual therapy and peer counseling for adults struggling with gambling, as well as therapy for those affected by someone else’s gambling.
If you’re somewhere else in CT, call the CT Council on Problem Gambling at 1-888-789-7777.
If you’re anywhere else in the US, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Do your part to stay informed. Know where to get help if you need it. And keep gambling fun!