RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING GUIDELINES
If you’re concerned that gambling is becoming more than a game for you, try using these guidelines to moderate your play.
• Think of the money you lose as the cost of your entertainment. Consider any money you win a bonus.
• Set a dollar limit and stick to it.
• Set a time limit and stick to it. Leave when you reach your limit, whether you’re winning or losing.
• Understand that you’ll probably lose and accept the loss as part of the game.
• Don’t borrow money to gamble.
• Don’t let gambling interfere with or become a substitute for family, friends or work.
• Don’t chase losses. Chances are you’ll lose even more trying to recoup your losses.
• Don’t use gambling as a way to cope with emotional or physical pain.
• Know the warning signs of problem gambling.
If your gambling is no longer an enjoyable activity, ask yourself: “Why am I still playing?” Call Missouri’s problem gambling help line at 1-888-BETSOFF (1-888-238-7633) for free help.
Source: National Council on Problem Gambling
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HELP
IS AVAILABLE
If
you feel you or someone you know has a gambling problem,
call
1-888-BETSOFF
(1-888-238-7633). Your
toll-free call to 1-888-BETSOFF can put you in touch
with people who understand your situation and can refer
you to free treatment in your area. Compulsive
gambling is a behavior disorder in which an individual
has an uncontrollable
preoccupation and urge to gamble. This results in excessive
gambling, the outcome of which is loss of time and money.
The
gambling reaches the point at which it compromises, disrupts
or destroys the gambler's personal life, family
relationships or vocational pursuits. The key signs
are emotional dependence on gambling, loss of control
and
interference with normal functioning. |
