Adults & Betting
$$ Money, Money, Money $$
Want to play your favourite game, but not end up in the hole? Here are some tips!
- Only bring the cash you want to spend on games and refreshments.
- Do not bring credit cards or debit cards. Bank machines are conveniently located for a reason, so play smart.
- Stick to your entertainment budget for the month, don't dip into your food or rent money.
- Keep track of your money, know where it all goes. Get some advice from a professional or someone who is "money-smart" if you need it.
- Don't bet blind. Know the game you are playing before you start.
Have you found yourself in some trouble with your finances? Here are some tips
- Talk out a repayment plan with credit cards; sometimes they can lower interest rates if you can assure them they will be paid.
- Protect yourself. Arrange for automatic payment of important bills directly from your bank account when you are paid.
- Set up a tight, realistic budget. Be prepared to sacrifice.
- Contact a Credit Counsellor for advice. In Thunder Bay: http://www.tbaycounselling.com/?q=node/6
- Consult a Financial Advisor at a bank or Consulting firm.
Risk Factors
There are some things that can put a person at risk for developing a gambling problem. They include:
- betting often, even when it interferes with work or family
- betting larger and larger amounts of money
- "stinkin thinking" like believing you are due for a win, or that you can control the outcome of a game.
- having a big win
- using betting to deal with feeling lonely, depressed or bored
- not knowing how to deal with stress in a healthy way
- having problems with other addictions like drugs or alcohol
