Did you know that according to the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly 67% of all college students bet on sports?* This figure doesn’t even include those who also bet on the lottery, card games, mobile games, or casinos. With such a significant number of students engaging in gambling activities, it’s crucial to approach sports betting with caution, especially during the football season. Here are some tips, strategies, and resources to help you avoid risky behaviors and get help if needed.
1. Evaluate Your Current Habits
Gambling and sports betting are not inherently wrong or bad. However, it’s essential to recognize that gambling sites, games, and apps are designed to keep you betting. They stimulate your brain’s reward center, similar to how alcohol and other drugs do, which can lead to addictive behaviors.
If you’re curious about how your brain reacts to gambling wins and losses, you can read more about the science behind gambling. Understanding your body’s reactions can help you be more mindful and know when it’s time to take a break.
Take a moment to reflect on your gambling habits over the past year. Ask yourself:
Have you gambled more often or with more money?
Have you withdrawn from relationships?
Have you borrowed money to cover gambling debts?
Do you hide your bets or gambling habits from others?
Do you feel the urge to keep betting even when you’re losing?
Has gambling caused you any health-related issues, including stress or anxiety?
Have you ever felt guilty or remorseful about the way you gamble or what happens when you gamble?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to reassess your gambling habits. You can also take this quick free quiz to evaluate your current habits.
2. Set Limits for Yourself
Establishing limits on how much time and money you spend on gambling can help you avoid unwanted financial consequences. Here are some strategies to mitigate your financial risks:
Set time and money limits: Utilize features available on gambling sites to monitor your play and recognize when you’ve reached your limits. Resist the urge to continue betting once you’ve hit your threshold.
Budget for gambling: Determine what you can reasonably afford to spend on gambling and stick to that budget. If tracking spending is challenging, consider removing your credit or debit card information from your devices to prevent impulsive betting.
Know how it works: Research the specific games or betting systems before placing bets. Understanding the mechanics can help reduce the risk of unexpected losses.
Bet only what you can afford to lose: All gambling carries risk. Decide how much money you’re willing to lose before placing bets, and remember not to chase losses, as this often leads to larger financial setbacks.
3. Find a Balance
Long periods of gambling can blur the lines of time and money management. Regular breaks can help you clear your head and maintain a healthier relationship with gambling. Here are some tips to strike a balance:
Engage in other hobbies or interests alongside recreational gambling.
Consider deleting gambling apps from your devices to reduce temptation.
Remove your credit or debit card information from autofill functions on your devices.
Set time limits or use software like Bet Blocker or GamBan to block sites you want to limit your time on.
Avoid gambling when your emotions are heightened, such as when you’re stressed or upset.
Refrain from gambling while under the influence of alcohol or other substances, as this can lead to riskier decisions.
4. Share Your Experience
People often feel more comfortable discussing their successes in gambling, but it’s equally important to talk about losses. Encourage open and honest conversations with friends about sports betting and gambling. Sharing your experiences can help identify effective strategies and recognize unhealthy habits.
Consider asking friends the following questions:
How does betting impact your enjoyment of watching sports?
How risky do you believe sports betting is compared to other forms of gambling?
What types of sports do you bet on?
How hard or easy is it to make money betting?
Have you experienced any losses this year? What was that like?
How do you see your relationship with betting changing in the future?
5. Seek Support
When gambling becomes problematic, it can lead to increased financial risks and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Some individuals may experience compulsive gambling, characterized by an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite negative consequences.
If you’re concerned about how gambling is affecting your life, numerous resources and programs are available to help.
On-Campus Resources
Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)
The CUCRC offers community and support for students, staff, and faculty in recovery or seeking recovery from various behaviors, including gambling.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS assists students in exploring their relationship with gambling and connecting with support resources. Schedule a screening or attend a Let’s Talk session to meet with a provider.
*Available for students
Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP)
FSAP helps staff and faculty explore their relationship with gambling and connect with support resources. Submit an online request to schedule an appointment with an FSAP provider.
*Available for staff and faculty
This guide offers quick tips for healthy gambling, finding balance, recognizing warning signs of problem gambling, and seeking help or recovery.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
Off-Campus Resources
AcademicLiveCare is a free online platform that allows all CU Boulder students, staff, and faculty to schedule and attend virtual counseling and psychiatry appointments from anywhere.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
This comprehensive database connects individuals with local mental health providers, allowing you to filter by specialties, insurance coverage, and more.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
National Problem Gambling Helpline
Operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), this helpline provides 24/7 phone, text, and chat services to connect individuals with local resources and support related to gambling concerns.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
Gamtalk is a free, anonymous, peer-based support network that helps individuals with problem gambling, offering moderated group support chats online 24/7.
*Available for students, staff, and faculty
*Gambling is prohibited in CU Boulder residence halls. NCAA rules prohibit athletics staff and student-athletes from participating in any sports wagering activities on an NCAA-sponsored sport, at any level.