According to the National Council on Problem Gambling nearly 67% of all college students bet on sports. This figure doesn’t even include the percentage who bet on the lottery, card games or at casinos.  

If you choose to gamble*, practice responsible gambling and know about resources available to you if you’re struggling with unsafe or out of control gambling habits. Here are some tips and strategies to help prevent putting yourself in a position of excessive risk when betting:

 

Practice Safer Play

  • Set time and money limits; use the tools available on gambling sites and at casinos to help you monitor your play
  • Gamble with only money set aside for entertainment. Consider leaving your credit and debit cards at home to help you stick to your budget.
  • Know how the game works and the risks before you play or bet
  • Bet only what you can afford to lose and don’t try to win back what you’ve lost
  • Never borrow money or use money intended for basic needs like rent and food

Find Balance

  • Balance recreational gambling with other healthy activities
  • Delete gaming apps from your phone, laptop and other mobile devices
  • Block sites you don’t want access to or set time limits using software like Bet Blocker and GamBan.
  • Don’t play to escape - never gamble when you’re upset or stressed
  • Avoid mixing gambling with alcohol or other substances, which may lead to choices related to gambling you wouldn’t otherwise make
  • Know where to get help

Know the Warning Signs

Have you noticed any of the following behaviors in yourself in the past 12 months?

  • Gambling more often or with more money
  • Withdrawing from relationships
  • Borrowing money to cover gambling debts

Take this quick quiz to assess your gambling habits in the past 12 months.

You may also want to read more about the science behind gambling. The brain’s reaction to wins and losses can create habits that are hard to break. A better understanding of this may assist you in knowing when to take a break from gambling.

Get Help and Seek Recovery

Besides the potential financial risks, problem gambling can increase your risk of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. If you are struggling, there are many resources and programs right here on campus to support you including:

In addition, there are non-CU resources available nationwide for gambling support:

NCPG also supports GamTalk, a 24/7 moderated online peer support forum www.gamtalk.org.

*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.