WOLCOTT CASA
Gambling
Approximately 2% of individuals will experience a gambling disorder at some point in their lives. Gambling involves wagering money or possessions on an event with an uncertain outcome, aiming to gain more material wealth or money. In Connecticut, you must be at least 21 to participate in online and in-person casino gambling or sports wagering. You must be 18 to participate in fantasy contests or purchase a lottery ticket. Gambling includes:
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Casino gambling
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Participation in lotteries
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Off-track betting
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Engaging in sports betting or fantasy sports
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Playing charitable games
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Online gambling
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Investing in the stock market
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Trading cryptocurrencies
When Does Gambling Become a Problem?
Financial distress:
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Unexplained disappearance of money from bank accounts, wallets, or money containers
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Absence of household items and valuables
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Regular financial shortfall despite earning a steady income
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Frequent borrowing or having multiple outstanding loans
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Secrecy regarding financial records or income
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Unpaid bills or receiving disconnection notices
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Insufficient food supplies at home
Changes in mood or behavior due to gambling:
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Employing deflection, rationalization, or minimization tactics
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Engaging in dishonest behavior
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Decline in work performance
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Displays of worry, agitation, or distress without apparent cause
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Expressing feelings of hopelessness, depression, frustration, or suicidal thoughts
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Alterations in personality traits, such as disruptions in sleep, eating, or sexual habits
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Exhibiting controlling or manipulative behavior, including the use of threats, lies, or charm to influence others
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Reacting defensively when confronted about gambling behavior
Among various forms of addiction, gambling is linked to the highest rate of suicide.
Here are some tips for responsible gambling:
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Establish a plan before you begin gambling.
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Set a specific time limit for your gambling sessions.
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Determine a monetary limit for your gambling activities.
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Take regular breaks during your gambling sessions.
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Refrain from consuming alcohol while gambling.
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Familiarize yourself with the rules of the games and understand the odds of winning.
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Avoid trying to recover losses by chasing them.
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Engage in gambling activities when you are in a positive mood and seeking enjoyment.
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