Responsible Gambling

How to Keep Gambling Fun

1. Decide Your Budget Before You Start

Pick an amount you can lose without it affecting your life. Rent money, grocery money — that's off limits. Once your budget is gone, you're done for the day.

2. Set a Timer

It's easy to lose track of time when you're playing. Set an alarm on your phone. After a couple of hours, take a real break — get up, walk around, come back later if you want.

3. Don't Play When You're Upset

Bad day at work? Fight with someone? That's the worst time to gamble. You won't make good decisions, and you'll probably regret it later.

4. Never Chase Your Losses

This is the big one. The moment you think "I'll win it back," you've already lost control. Walk away. Come back another day with a clear head.

5. Don't Drink and Play

Alcohol makes "just one more bet" feel totally reasonable when it isn't. Keep it simple: if you're drinking, don't play. If you're playing, don't drink.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Be honest with yourself. If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to step back:

• Borrowing money to gamble
• Thinking about gambling more than work or family
• Not being able to stop even when you want to
• Trying to win back losses
• Hiding how much you gamble from people close to you